Planning determines data center impacts, researcher tells Hazleton chamber

BUTLER TWP. — The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development presented key findings from its 2026 report on data centers at a recent Red Carpet breakfast hosted by the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce. Jill Avery-Stoss, president of the Institute, underscored that data center impacts are not predetermined but are shaped by planning, regional standards, and public input. Speakers at the event, including Shelby Linton Keddie of PPL Electric Utilities, Alex Halper of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, and Rock Stahovic of Barry Isett and Associates, discussed various aspects of data center development in Northeast Pennsylvania. Avery-Stoss noted the region's appeal due to affordable electricity, available fiber optics, and a skilled workforce. However, she also detailed potential negative impacts, such as high electricity and water consumption, noise, vibrations, and light pollution. A January report from the Institute warned that data center campuses could use 20 times the electricity of 100,000 homes and that PJM Interconnection anticipates a need for new electricity generation to meet projected long-term demand. Linton Keddie presented a chart showing PPL's customer agreements for future electric use are more than three times current levels, reaching 25.2 GW over the next decade. The Institute's report recommended exploring renewable energy sources, efficient water-recycling cooling technologies, and leveraging Pennsylvania's cooler climate. It also urged data centers to publicly report their resource usage, engage early with residents and local governments in planning, and avoid residential areas. Bill Jones, a Republican candidate, raised public fears about rising electric rates and residents suing municipalities. Stahovic, an engineer involved with Amazon's data center in Salem Twp., stressed the importance of municipal ordinances in regulating data center location and operation. Halper emphasized the economic benefits, stating data centers create jobs and tax revenue, supporting local governments and schools. He warned that if Pennsylvania doesn't embrace data center development, other states will reap these benefits. Halper also highlighted that while data centers don't employ large workforces, they demand fewer government services compared to the taxes they contribute. He stressed the importance of addressing community concerns and incorporating feedback into the public policy development process.