Pennsylvania is seeing rapid growth in data centers. These facilities consume enormous amounts of electricity and water and can impact local communities.
Right now, the PA General Assembly is considering two important, commonsense bills:
- HB 2150 – Requires annual reporting of data center energy and water use
- HB 2151 – Provides a model ordinance to help municipalities manage data center development
These bills are not the final word on data center policy but they are important first steps toward transparency, local control, and informed decision-making.
HB 2150 would give policymakers and communities the data they need to understand how these facilities affect our grid, water resources, and environment.
HB 2151 would give local governments access to a state-developed, optional model ordinance to help them address issues like siting, noise, and community impacts. This is especially helpful for municipalities that lack planning capacity.
Unfortunately, there has been some confusion about HB 2151. To be clear:
- Using or adopting the model ordinance is optional, not mandatory
- It is a tool for municipalities, not a limit on local authority
- It does not provide special rights or incentives to data centers
Together, these bills move Pennsylvania toward a more transparent, thoughtful approach to managing a fast-growing industry.
Take action today: Ask your state legislators to support HB 2150 and HB 2151.
Pennsylvania has a chance to get ahead of this issue. Let’s make sure we do it right.
