Governor Shapiro Signs Executive Order Demanding Data Center Developers Comply with Strict Requirements and Blocking Speculative, Irresponsible Data Center Projects

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August 18, 2026 - Harrisburg, PA

Governor Shapiro Signs Executive Order Demanding Data Center Developers Comply with Strict Requirements and Blocking Speculative, Irresponsible Data Center Projects

Governor Josh Shapiro signed Executive Order 2026-05, directing Commonwealth agencies to require all data center proposals applying for permits with the Commonwealth to comply with the Governor's Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) Requirements, blocking speculative, irresponsible data center projects from moving forward, giving local communities more power over data center development, and protecting Pennsylvania residents. The Executive Order directs the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to evaluate permit applications from proposed data centers only if developers have made a legally binding commitment to meet the Governor's GRID Requirements and have received local approval.

"Over the past year, I've listened to the people of Pennsylvania - and I've heard directly from many residents across our Commonwealth who are concerned about what data center development could mean for our communities, our environment, and our utility bills," said Governor Josh Shapiro. "My message to data center developers is clear: if you can't agree to our strict requirements and get the community where you want to build to say 'yes,' you're not going to have the Commonwealth's support either. These are some of the biggest companies in the world - they can afford to be good neighbors, follow the rules, and do this right."

This Executive Order lays out strict requirements that data center developers must meet regarding energy affordability, community engagement, workforce and economic development, transparency, and environmental protection - and gives local municipalities a greater say over development in their communities.

Speaker List:
Governor Josh Shapiro
DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley
Commissioner John Smith, Hampden Township
David Sanko, Executive Director, PA State Association of Township Supervisors
Dawone Robinson, Managing Director of Place-Based Advocacy & Climate and Energy, National Resources Defense Council
Patrick Cicero, PA Utility Law Project
Chairman Stephen DeFrank, Public Utility Commission

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