Shapiro’s pivot: Where Pennsylvania’s major data center projects stand now
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro removed data centers from the state’s expedited Permit Fast Track program and imposed new GRID standards amid rising public opposition. Projects across the state remain at different stages, with Amazon’s Falls Township development closest to opening but facing local opposition and a pending environmental permit.
Gov. Josh Shapiro shifted Pennsylvania’s data center policy after voter opposition grew, removing data centers from the Permit Fast Track program and requiring new projects to meet GRID standards covering energy costs, environmental protection, local jobs and community engagement. The state says the program accelerated administrative reviews but did not override local zoning, environmental laws or permit requirements. No data center developer had signed a binding agreement to follow the new standards as of Oct. 27.
Amazon’s Falls Township project in Bucks County is among the furthest along, with its first phase online and a second phase awaiting a Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection air-quality permit for backup generators. The project has drawn town-hall opposition, public comments and zoning disputes, while nearby Morrisville Borough adopted a six-month moratorium. Other projects, including Pennsylvania Digital 1 near Carlisle and Project Hazelnut, have faced approval disputes, construction challenges or legal conflicts, illustrating the uneven status of the nine developments formerly included in Fast Track.