Data centers become a boogeyman in Pennsylvania
BUCKS COUNTY, Pennsylvania — Just a few months ago, data centers were the belle of the Pennsylvania ball. Now they’re public enemy No. 1.
TL;DR
- Data centers have shifted from being seen as economic benefits to major public concerns in Pennsylvania.
- Initial enthusiasm for data centers, including plans for Three Mile Island to power them, has been replaced by political opposition.
- Governor Josh Shapiro, once a proponent, has introduced new regulations for data centers.
- Political opponents are using data center industry donations and perceived coziness with developers as attack points.
- Public opinion has turned sharply against data center construction, with polls showing strong opposition.
- In specific local races, candidates are aggressively campaigning against each other over their stances on data centers.