-
·
Model Tariff / PUC Invitation for Comments – Data Centers and Ratepayer Protection
Pennsylvania's Public Utility Commission proposes a statewide model tariff requiring large electric customers, including data centers, to share grid interconnection costs through contributions-in-aid-of-construction, tiered collateral and minimum contract terms. The tariff encourages contributions to low-income assistance programs and offers interruptible service rates during peak demand. Comments closed 30 days after the November 2025 notice.
-
·
The Power Behind AI: Wave of Dirty Gas Power Plants Planned for Data Centers
Environmental Integrity Project identifies at least 74 natural gas plants dedicated to data centers across the U.S., projected to emit 662 million tons of greenhouse gases and 159,142 tons of air pollutants each year. Texas holds 32 of the plants. The report profiles community opposition in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Tennessee and Texas.
-
·
The Health Risks of Data Centers Infograph by Environmental Health Project
An estimated 1,300 premature deaths a year by 2030 stem from data center pollution—diesel generators and fossil-fueled power tied to respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Noise, light and water demands add health risks nearby, while $4.3 billion in 2024 grid costs hit ratepayers across seven states amid rising climate strain.
-
·
Strategies from the Front Lines: How Communities Fight Data Centers
Springdale, Pennsylvania resident Matt Lang fought a newly approved data center by attending borough council meetings and delivering a petition. Additional tactics covered include filing Right-to-Know requests, updating local zoning ordinances, requesting health impact assessments, and negotiating community benefits agreements with developers.
-
·
What to Test On Your Property
This document is a checklist for residents to record an environmental baseline before nearby industrial or infrastructure projects begin. Physicians for Social Responsibility Pennsylvania outlines what to test inside and outside a home, so later changes can be traced to a specific cause.
-
·
Establishing a Community Environmental Baseline with You and Your Neighbors
This document is a step-by-step guide to testing radon, PFAS, air quality, and noise levels on a property before nearby industrial development begins. Specific tools named include the Pennsylvania Radon Map, Cyclopure PFAS test kits, and USGS water monitoring stations for building a baseline record.
Exposing AI Data Center Threats and Harms