With a trifecta, Pa. Democrats would pass energy reforms and rein in data centers
The article examines how a Democratic trifecta in Pennsylvania could advance proposals to regulate data centers, limit their effects on electricity bills and impose fees on large water users. Environmental advocates are also calling for a moratorium on new data center construction, but Gov. Josh Shapiro is viewed as unlikely to support one because of his efforts to attract the industry.
A potential Democratic takeover of the Pennsylvania Senate, combined with continued control of the House and the governor’s office, could revive stalled legislation on renewable energy, grid policy and data center development. A House-approved proposal would regulate data centers and limit their impact on electricity customers, while legislation introduced by Rep. Danielle Friel Otten would charge users withdrawing more than 10,000 gallons of water per day.
Pennsylvania has about 70 data centers and 93 additional proposed projects, according to the Data Center Tracker. Advocates say the projects could intensify grid strain, increase utility costs and create environmental risks, while a Quinnipiac poll found substantial public opposition to data centers in local communities.
Environmental groups and some legislators have called for pausing new construction until those impacts are addressed. However, Gov. Josh Shapiro’s support for the industry and his broader energy agenda make a statewide moratorium unlikely, even if Democrats gain unified control of state government.