Data center proposal in Union and Lycoming counties prompts concerns over new transmission line
A proposed data center by PNK Group in Gregg Township, Union County, Pennsylvania, necessitates a new 230,000-volt transmission line from PPL Electric, sparking strong opposition from local farmers and residents in both Union and Lycoming counties. Critics argue the project is not for the public good and question who will ultimately bear the costs for infrastructure primarily benefiting a private entity. The transmission line's construction is directly contingent on the data center's progression, with a route selection decision expected soon.
A proposed data center complex by PNK Group in Gregg Township, Union County, Pennsylvania, has ignited significant local opposition due to the extensive 230,000-volt transmission line infrastructure required by PPL Electric. The nine-mile power line, slated to run across Lycoming and Union counties, directly impacts numerous residential properties, farmland, and state game lands, including the farm of Washington Township Supervisor Brett Taylor. Taylor, who also serves as Farm Director on the Lycoming County Planning Commission, revealed he was unaware of the transmission line's path until a recent PPL open house, noting it would cut directly through his farm and prevent aerial crop applications, causing a permanent economic loss.
The transmission line project, which PPL Electric claims is necessary to meet "growing energy needs" and serve "new customer facilities," was confirmed at the June 3 open house to be entirely dependent on PNK Group's data center moving forward. Residents, including Terry Snoddy and Matthew DeWire of the Concerned Citizens of Gregg Township, strongly contend that the project is not for the public good but solely for the benefit of PNK Group, raising concerns about potential public subsidization of infrastructure for a private entity.
Supervisor Taylor and fellow supervisor George Ulrich face a conflict of interest due to their affected properties, forcing them to recuse themselves from related votes and leaving decision-making to a less experienced board member. Construction of the transmission line, pending approval from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, is anticipated to begin in winter 2027, with PPL expected to select a route by July 7 and commence right-of-way acquisitions. Critics emphasize that if the data center project fails, the need for the contentious transmission line disappears.