UPDATE: Conshohocken-area residents are mounting a fierce opposition against a proposed 2 million-square-foot data center, just one mile from downtown Conshohocken. The facility, which would occupy 10 buildings at the now-closed Cleveland-Cliffs steel mill, is being pushed forward by developer Brian O’Neill, who claims it could generate $21 million annually in tax revenue.
As the Plymouth Township zoning board prepares to consider the proposal on November 17, local residents have launched a petition that has already garnered over 370 signatures. Many fear the data center could lead to environmental harm and skyrocketing energy bills. “We want to ensure that our community can advocate for itself,” stated Patti Smith, a resident living across from the proposed site and organizer of the petition.
The demand for data centers is skyrocketing due to the explosion of power-hungry artificial intelligence technologies. However, critics argue that the facilities could strain the local power grid, leading to higher electricity rates. A 2024 Department of Energy report indicated that data center load growth has tripled over the past decade and is projected to double or even triple again by 2028.
O’Neill has stated that the proposed data center would operate independently from the grid, utilizing natural gas to generate its own energy. Despite this claim, residents like Genevieve Boland express deep concerns over potential noise and air pollution. “Natural gas generation can release harmful greenhouse gases,” she emphasized.
As tensions rise, local lawmakers are actively discussing legislation that would fast-track data center projects, potentially sidelining local zoning regulations. In June, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro endorsed Amazon’s massive $20 billion investment in data centers across the state, further intensifying the urgency of this issue.
The community’s fears are compounded by the potential for increased energy consumption. Residents have already seen their energy bills climb, and PJM Interconnection, which manages the local power grid, has cited the rise of data centers as a contributing factor to grid strain. According to recent auction results, energy rates may rise by 1.5% to 5% in the near future.
Local residents are urging others to join their cause before the zoning board meeting. “Our goal is to raise awareness in the community,” Smith declared. “There are still many who are not aware of what’s at stake.”
The fight against the proposed data center in Conshohocken is emblematic of a wider struggle faced by communities grappling with the balance between technological advancement and environmental sustainability. As the clock ticks down to the zoning board’s decision, the community remains focused on amplifying their voice and protecting their home.
