The Public Utility Commission (PUC) is currently seeking comments and feedback from industry leaders and the public on the impact of large-scale data centers on Pennsylvania’s water resources and power grid. As part of the interconnection and tariff discussions, the PUC is focusing on how data centers, especially those with significant energy needs, will affect the infrastructure and the environment. With new data centers proposed for several regions in the state, including the Lower Allegheny River Basin, the outcome of this consultation could have lasting implications for both water and power systems in the area.
An en banc hearing was held by the PUC in late April, and the public response period is open until May 27. This is an opportunity for concerned citizens, community groups, and water advocates to raise their voices and provide valuable input on the potential risks that data centers may pose to local ecosystems, water bodies, and recreational spaces. While technology advances, it’s crucial to ensure that development does not come at the cost of our precious natural resources.
One of the key concerns that has been raised is the location of the proposed data centers in areas that are tied directly to public source waters and recreational assets. Four proposed sites for data centers in the Lower Allegheny River Basin—including areas in Homer City, Upper Burrell, Springdale Borough, and the Freeport area—could significantly impact the water resources that local communities rely on for daily consumption and recreation. These proposed sites, many of which could tap into public water systems, threaten to overburden local water infrastructure and disrupt natural water flow, potentially compromising both water quality and access.
Protect PT has issued an action alert urging concerned citizens to get involved in this important issue. Data centers, due to their high energy consumption and water usage, can put considerable strain on local systems, and without careful regulation, they could exacerbate existing water and power challenges. The concern isn’t just about energy consumption; it’s about the impact these centers will have on the quality and availability of water resources for surrounding communities, wildlife, and recreational users who depend on clean water.
As part of their commitment to environmental protection, Protect PT is actively raising awareness and advocating for sustainable solutions in the face of this proposed growth. They urge all individuals, organizations, and water advocates to contribute their feedback during the public comment period and advocate for responsible development that does not jeopardize the health of the Allegheny River Basin or its surrounding communities.
This is a critical moment for H2O Water Network and all environmental organizations to show solidarity with Protect PT and ensure that development in Pennsylvania is done in a way that preserves the health of our natural resources. We encourage all our partners and supporters to submit comments to the PUC, emphasizing the importance of sustainable, community-focused development that takes water quality and infrastructure capacity into account.
As the proposed data centers move forward, it’s essential that we advocate for water sustainability and ensure that our natural resources are protected for future generations. Together, we can make a real difference in how Pennsylvania balances growth with environmental responsibility.
