AI data center legislation would aim to reduce speculative proposals in Pa
Pennsylvania representatives Kyle Donahue and Elizabeth Fiedler are proposing legislation to reduce speculative AI data center proposals in the state. The bill would require data center applicants to have submitted an application with an electric utility provider before seeking local zoning or land-use approval. This aims to ensure municipalities only review serious projects with a legitimate path to construction.
Pennsylvania is experiencing a surge in proposed AI data center developments, prompting legislative efforts to regulate and set standards for the industry. State Representatives Kyle Donahue (D-Lackawanna) and Elizabeth Fiedler (D-Philadelphia) are advocating for a new bill to address speculative proposals.
The proposed legislation would mandate that data center applicants seeking zoning or land-use approval must first submit an application with an electric utility provider. This measure, according to Rep. Donahue, would link local zoning reviews to concrete proof of active pursuit for utility interconnection, ensuring that municipalities dedicate resources only to viable projects.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has noted that out of at least 100 proposed data centers in the state, the majority have not initiated the permit acquisition process. In a related move earlier this week, Pennsylvania launched a public website for residents to submit concerns about AI data centers and track permit application statuses.