Shapiro ties fast-track permits to data center standards

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro plans to offer faster permitting for data centers that meet stricter environmental and transparency standards, known as the Governor's Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) standards. The standards aim to address concerns about data centers' impact on energy prices, water supplies, and the environment, and require them to hire local workers and engage with communities. Environmental advocates welcome the initiative but say it needs stronger enforcement mechanisms that would require legislative cooperation.