Data center projects in Pennsylvania, including the Susquehanna Valley, are drawing attention and sparking debate over their impact on communities and the environment, becoming a key issue in the governor’s race. Shapiro proposes new standardsGov. Josh Shapiro this week formally proposed “GRID” standards for data center projects, offering incentives for developers who take steps his administration says would help protect communities. Shapiro announced during his budget address that these projects could receive tax incentives and expedited regulatory approval if developers bring, build, or buy the additional power they need, meet transparency standards, and sign community benefit agreements. Garrity calls for moratoriumState Treasurer Stacy Garrity, Shapiro’s Republican opponent in the governor’s race, has called for a moratorium on hyperscale data center projects.Garrity said lawmakers should address the issue and establish standards to protect local communities. Voter concerns growBerwood Yost, a political expert from Franklin & Marshall College, said the issue is gaining traction among voters. “Things are very expensive. It’s top of mind for most voters,” Yost said. “I think there’s a concern that these data centers are going to drive up the cost of electricity for consumers and people don’t want that. And then there are the other quality-of-life issues that people are concerned about.” Shapiro’s plan is voluntary, but he has asked the legislature to support it through Pennsylvania law.

HARRISBURG, Pa. —

Data center projects in Pennsylvania, including the Susquehanna Valley, are drawing attention and sparking debate over their impact on communities and the environment, becoming a key issue in the governor’s race.

Shapiro proposes new standards

Gov. Josh Shapiro this week formally proposed “GRID” standards for data center projects, offering incentives for developers who take steps his administration says would help protect communities.

Shapiro announced during his budget address that these projects could receive tax incentives and expedited regulatory approval if developers bring, build, or buy the additional power they need, meet transparency standards, and sign community benefit agreements.

Garrity calls for moratorium

State Treasurer Stacy Garrity, Shapiro’s Republican opponent in the governor’s race, has called for a moratorium on hyperscale data center projects.

Garrity said lawmakers should address the issue and establish standards to protect local communities.

Voter concerns grow

Berwood Yost, a political expert from Franklin & Marshall College, said the issue is gaining traction among voters.

“Things are very expensive. It’s top of mind for most voters,” Yost said. “I think there’s a concern that these data centers are going to drive up the cost of electricity for consumers and people don’t want that. And then there are the other quality-of-life issues that people are concerned about.”

Shapiro’s plan is voluntary, but he has asked the legislature to support it through Pennsylvania law.