Pennsylvania Gov. Shapiro signs executive order restricting AI data center development
Governor Josh Shapiro signed an executive order, known as Grid, to restrict AI data center development in Pennsylvania and give more control to local communities. This action addresses significant community pushback against aggressive developers, despite Shapiro's prior support for data center growth. The legislature is also considering related measures.
Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania signed an executive order today aimed at regulating AI data center development across the state. The order, known as "GRID" (Governor's Responsible Infrastructure Development Requirements), grants local communities greater authority over proposed projects and signifies a shift for Governor Shapiro, who was previously a proponent of data center growth in Pennsylvania.
This action comes in response to increasing pushback from residents and local leaders concerning the aggressive tactics of some developers. Governor Shapiro stated that while only five AI data centers currently have permits to begin operating, "these speculators are nevertheless scaring our communities, being aggressive with township officials, bullying our neighbors, our fellow Pennsylvanians, and refusing to listen to the people."
The state legislature is reportedly also considering two related measures to address these concerns.