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Josh Shapiro Signs Executive Order to Restrict Data Center Development in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed an executive order on Tuesday to impose significant restrictions on data center projects across the state. The order marks a shift from his previous support of the industry, as he now aims to prevent "predatory" developers from overrunning local communities. Under the new mandate, data center projects must first receive approval from local officials and developers must commit to specific guidelines, including paying for their own power and hiring locally. Shapiro also removed data center projects from the state's fast-track permitting program and prohibited nondisclosure agreements for these projects. The administration announced that developers must now adhere to GRID standards, which include a commitment to 32% renewables by 2035. The order aims to ensure that wealthy tech companies do not burden residents with rising electricity costs. While the industry argues that clear standards are necessary, Shapiro emphasized that the move was driven by feedback from concerned residents who want to more selective and transparent development.

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