Residents turn out for PPL open house as concerns grow over data centers, power project

Residents in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, specifically in Jermyn, gathered for an open house hosted by PPL Electric Utilities to discuss a significant proposed power infrastructure project. The project, which includes a new substation, switchyards, and miles of transmission lines, aims to support growing energy demand and improve regional reliability. PPL confirmed that at least one data center customer is expected to connect to the new infrastructure, though they emphasized the broader goal of strengthening the grid. Attendees at the informational session expressed skepticism and concern. Many residents are worried about the environmental impact of the project and potential data center development, specifically regarding endangered vegetation and animals. Additionally, residents voiced fears about rising electric bills, questioning the benefit of the project for current income prices without their lights shining brighter. PPL stated that any customer connecting to their system must pay for necessary infrastructure upgrades, with costs for regional reliability shared among customers and subject to regulatory oversight. Construction of the project, if approved by the State Public Utility Commission, is not expected to begin until 2027.