DATA CENTERS IN PENNSYLVANIA: Understanding the Opportunities, Challenges, and Policy Landscape
As artificial intelligence and cloud computing drive unprecedented demand for data storage, large-scale data centers are rapidly expanding across the country — including in Pennsylvania. While these facilities can support economic development and digital infrastructure, they also raise important questions about energy demand, water use, land use, utility costs, and community impacts.
To help policymakers, local officials, advocates, and residents better understand this emerging issue, PCRG and the Pennsylvania Policy Center partnered on a three-part research series examining how data center development is reshaping communities across the Commonwealth.
Together, these fact sheets separate fact from fiction, explain how data centers can affect local infrastructure and quality of life, and explore the state and local policy tools available to guide future development. Whether you're evaluating a proposed project or simply looking to better understand the conversation, these resources provide an accessible overview of one of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing policy issues.
EXPLORE THE SERIES
-
As data center development accelerates, so have the misconceptions surrounding it. This fact sheet examines six of the most common claims about data centers — from jobs and tax revenue to water use, environmental impacts, and utility costs—and compares them with available research and data to help inform public discussion.
-
As lawmakers respond to the rapid growth of data centers, several bills have been introduced to address issues ranging from transparency and reporting requirements to zoning guidance, workforce standards, utility costs, and community protections. This fact sheet provides an overview of the key proposals and what they could mean for Pennsylvania communities.
-
Local governments play an important role in determining where and how data centers are built. This guide explores the planning and zoning tools Pennsylvania municipalities can use to manage data center development, including siting decisions, permitting processes, performance standards, and strategies for protecting nearby communities and local resources.
Additional Resources
Data center development is evolving quickly, and new projects and policy proposals continue to emerge. These resources can help you stay informed.
U.S. Data Center Proposal Tracker
Track proposed and announced data center developments across the country with this interactive map, including projects planned throughout Pennsylvania.
Fair Shake Environmental Legal Services Data Center Community Resource Hub
Developed by Fair Shake Environmental Legal Services, this collection of resources helps communities understand data center development, navigate local decision-making processes, and access tools for community engagement and advocacy.
PennFuture Model Data Center Zoning Ordinance
Municipalities don't have to start from scratch when preparing for data center development. PennFuture's model zoning ordinance offers practical guidance on siting, setbacks, noise, water consumption, power use, landscaping, and other land use considerations that communities can adapt to meet their local needs. The ordinance was developed after reviewing data center regulations adopted in Pennsylvania and northern Virginia.