Shapiro wants to incentivize data centers to be better neighbors. Will that work?

Gov. Josh Shapiro wants to incentivize data center developers in Pennsylvania to follow stricter environmental and transparency standards by offering them an expedited permitting process. Shapiro has outlined "GRID" standards that require developers to bring their own power generation, commit to environmental protection, hire and train local workers, and engage with local communities. However, environmental advocates say the incentives may not be enough without enforcement mechanisms, which would require cooperation from the state legislature. The effectiveness of Shapiro's plan will depend on the specific standards set and how they are measured and enforced.