Data centers can power up employment in PA – if done right
Union Energy PA President Robert S. Bair argues that Pennsylvania can expand data center development while creating union jobs, protecting communities and preventing new energy costs from being shifted to ratepayers. He supports House Bill 1834 and Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Responsible Infrastructure Development Standards as frameworks for responsible infrastructure growth.
Robert S. Bair, president of Union Energy PA, argues that data center construction in Pennsylvania should create well-paying, safe jobs for union workers while protecting local communities, the environment and utility customers. He says electricians, laborers, plumbers and engineers should play a central role in building the infrastructure needed to support the industry.
Bair endorses House Bill 1834, which had advanced through the Pennsylvania House and was before the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee. He also supports Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Responsible Infrastructure Development Standards, saying the standards can help protect ratepayers, strengthen environmental safeguards, promote transparency and give communities a voice as data center-related energy infrastructure expands.