Shapiro tightens PA data-center rules with GRID standards

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a broad executive order to curb speculative data-center development, scrapping fast-track permit approvals in favor of the Governor’s GRID standards, requiring DEP review for water use and pollution, and forcing developers to cover grid upgrades and secure a set share of renewables (32% by 2035) while bringing communities into the process with consent orders and community-benefits agreements. The move limits local opposition by prioritizing municipalities and signals a policy shift away from previous data-center enthusiasm, even as there are no AI data centers operating yet in PA. Industry groups warn midstream rule changes could disrupt investments, while critics argue the measures protect consumers from rising electricity costs and grid stress.