While House and Senate Dems laud Shapiro’s data center executive order, Republicans call it the latest policy flip-flop from the Governor
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued Executive Order 2026-05, implementing new regulations for data centers and large electric load customers in the Commonwealth. The order aims to impose stricter requirements on developers, protect communities and the environment, and prevent electricity rate hikes. While House and Senate Democrats laud the move as necessary, Senate Republicans criticize it as a policy reversal and a failure to engage seriously on the issue.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has issued Executive Order 2026-05, introducing significant regulatory changes for data centers and other large electricity consumers across the Commonwealth. The order, which codifies previously introduced GRID Regulations, aims to establish stronger requirements for data center developers, safeguard communities, control utility costs, and protect the environment.
Democrat leaders in both the Pennsylvania House and Senate, including Senate Democrat leader Jay Costa, have praised the executive order. They assert that the action is crucial given the alleged inaction of Senate Republicans on legislation to manage the growing data center industry. Democrats highlighted that the order builds on their prior efforts to empower communities, prevent electricity rate increases, and conserve water.
Conversely, Senate Republicans have accused Governor Shapiro of a policy "flip-flop" regarding data centers. They pointed to previous statements where Shapiro embraced AI and data center development in Pennsylvania, suggesting his current stance is a reaction to political pressure. Republicans also claimed they have taken action on data center transparency as part of the 2026-27 state budget and passed legislation to revoke data center sales tax exemptions, which they say the House then amended into an unrecognizable form. They indicate further legislative action is planned for the Fall.