PA Gov. Josh Shapiro Asked: 'Can You Address The Issue Of The Data Centers?'
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed an executive order establishing the country's strictest requirements for data center development in Pennsylvania. These regulations mandate that developers generate and pay for their own power, protect air and water, and secure local community support before permit applications are considered. The order aims to empower local communities and curb the actions of developers who bypass public interest.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro announced a new executive order implementing the strictest data center development requirements in the nation. The order, signed last week, aims to protect communities across Pennsylvania from what the governor described as "unscrupulous developers" attempting to circumvent local interests.
Under the new regulations, data center developers are mandated to generate and pay for their own power, protect air and water resources, and, critically, secure the explicit support of local communities. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will not even consider permit applications without this local approval, effectively returning decision-making power to the residents and their elected officials.
Governor Shapiro emphasized that the executive order directly addresses the issue of developers "running roughshod over communities" and "wreaking havoc" on areas, characterizing these as representing about 90% of proposed projects. He underscored the importance of empowering local supervisors, such as those in Upper Moreland, to make informed decisions about their communities' future.
Pennsylvania is now positioned as a national leader in controlling data center development responsibly, with other governors and senators reportedly contacting the state to study its new model. The executive order is designed to stop adverse developer behavior and ensure the Commonwealth's protection.