Pennsylvania's regulatory environment reflects a deeply contested landscape where both moratorium adoption and zoning resistance create meaningful barriers. At least 16 moratoriums have been enacted alongside 6 rejected, and zoning outcomes are notably unfavorable with at least 29 approvals against 35 denials, one of the worst ratios in the country. At least 13 projects have been blocked compared to 6 approved despite opposition, showing that organized resistance frequently prevails. Despite these challenges, at least 140 companies are active in the state, the highest company count observed, reflecting Pennsylvania's strategic importance as a data center market. Unlike neighboring Ohio, where moratorium volumes are higher but zoning denial ratios are less severe, Pennsylvania combines both moratorium and zoning friction simultaneously.
Regulatory Environment Score
Pennsylvania's regulatory environment reflects a deeply contested landscape where both moratorium adoption and zoning resistance create meaningful barriers. At least 16 moratoriums have been enacted alongside 6 rejected, and zoning outcomes are notably unfavorable with at least 29 approvals against 35 denials, one of the worst ratios in the country. At least 13 projects have been blocked compared to 6 approved despite opposition, showing that organized resistance frequently prevails. Despite these challenges, at least 140 companies are active in the state, the highest company count observed, reflecting Pennsylvania's strategic importance as a data center market. Unlike neighboring Ohio, where moratorium volumes are higher but zoning denial ratios are less severe, Pennsylvania combines both moratorium and zoning friction simultaneously.
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