Across Pennsylvania, residents are watching their electric bills rise—while massive data centers consume more and more of our energy. These facilities, which power the backbone of the AI and digital economy, are quietly reshaping our state’s energy landscape. Yet many of them don’t contribute a dime to programs that help struggling families pay their utility bills.

At a recent state hearing, it was confirmed that even "behind-the-meter" data centers—those that buy power directly from suppliers—can drive up costs for the rest of us by demanding new infrastructure. That means everyday Pennsylvanians may be footing the bill for grid expansions, water use, and environmental costs—all while tech companies cash in.

This isn't just about rising costs. It’s also about accountability and local control. Right now, some state lawmakers are considering legislation that would fast-track data center development and bypass municipal input. That could leave local communities out of the decision-making process entirely, even as they’re left to deal with the consequences.

We, the undersigned, are calling on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to take immediate action:

1. Require data centers—especially those with large energy footprints—to contribute to customer assistance programs.
2. Ensure all data center development is subject to full local review and approval.
3. Reject any attempt to fast-track these projects in ways that preempt local control.
4. Conduct transparent and accurate energy demand forecasting before committing public resources to grid expansion.

We are not against innovation or technological progress. But Pennsylvanians shouldn’t be asked to subsidize data centers while struggling to afford their own electric bills.

Sen. Lindsey Williams is already raising these questions in Harrisburg. Now it's time for the full legislature to act in the public's interest—not just corporate interests. Sign this petition to demand energy fairness, transparency, and local control before it's too late.

Photo: AP/Ted Shaffrey