Erie County Considers New Data Center Rules Following Shapiro Executive Order
Erie County Council is considering an amendment to its Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) to establish new requirements for future data centers in 12 municipalities. This follows a statewide executive order by Governor Shapiro aimed at responsible data center development, though local officials believe it doesn't go far enough. A vote on the amendment is expected on August 25.
Erie County Council is actively reviewing a significant amendment to its Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) aimed at implementing stricter regulations for future data center developments across 12 municipalities. This initiative stems from growing local concerns regarding the potential impacts of these facilities.
The proposed SALDO amendment follows Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's recent executive order, which seeks to prevent "speculative, irresponsible data center projects" statewide. Under the Governor's Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) requirements, the state's Environmental Protection Agency would only process permit applications from developers who commit to meeting specific standards related to energy affordability, environmental health, economic development, and transparency. However, the precise details of these GRID requirements are not yet publicly available.
Despite the governor's directive, local leaders express reservations about its effectiveness. Henry Chiapa, District 3 Representative on the Erie County Planning Commission, stated that the executive order's provisions are insufficient and suggested that Governor Shapiro may be "passing the buck" to the Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Utility Commission. Chiapa emphasized the need for additional local regulations to adequately address community concerns.
The executive order also mandates local approval before state agencies will review data center permit applications. Erie County Council is slated to cast its vote on the proposed SALDO amendment on August 25.