Pair of bills aiming to regulate and increase data center transparency passes PA house

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has passed two significant bills aimed at increasing transparency and regulating data center development across the state. House Bill 2150, which received a 133-68 vote, establishes annual water and energy reporting requirements for all data centers operating within Pennsylvania. This bill also mandates that the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Public Utility jointly issue an annual report detailing the water and energy impacts of data centers. Proponents of HB 2150 argue that these measures are essential to provide lawmakers with the necessary data to understand and mitigate potential impacts on energy supply chains, utility rates, and the broader environment. The goal is to ensure greater transparency regarding data center operations. Additionally, House Bill 2151 passed with a vote of 124-77. This bill, sponsored by Rep. Kyle Donahue (D-Lackawanna County), directs an area government commission to develop an alternative model ordinance for municipalities. This ordinance is intended to assist local governments, particularly those lacking time and resources, in regulating data centers within their jurisdictions. The proposed model ordinances would include provisions such as sound barriers and building design standards, aiming to minimize community disruptions in areas hosting data centers. Rep. Donahue noted the current absence of consistent statewide standards for data center mitigation. Both bills are now advancing to the Pennsylvania Senate for further consideration.