Last week, the PA Chamber proposed that any legislation that would block data center development should include a No Technology Pledge amendment, a tongue-in-cheek reminder that data centers are essential infrastructure that enables many of the conveniences in modern society. The pledge asks supporters of data center bans to stop using digital services that rely on data centers, including social media, artificial intelligence, streaming services, e-commerce, online banking, cloud storage, GPS navigation, remote work tools, and digital payments.

“The pledge is simple,” PA Chamber Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Jon Anzur said. “If you support stopping data center development, you should also agree to stop using the technologies that depend on data centers.”

The pledge also includes email, texting, FaceTime, telehealth, online medical records, emergency weather alerts, and cloud-based systems for cybersecurity, logistics, payroll, accounting, and more.

Anzur said Pennsylvania has an opportunity to attract investment and jobs tied to the growing technology economy while ensuring communities have a voice in where and how data centers are built.

“Data centers are not a fit for every community, but where they make sense and are built responsibly, the economic benefits are enormous,” Anzur said. “Those trying to block them should at least acknowledge that demand for everyday technology is driving the need for the infrastructure that makes it possible.”

“Pennsylvania has a choice: We can lead in energy, innovation and infrastructure to drive meaningful investments and job growth in communities across Pennsylvania, or we can tell the next generation of employers to create those opportunities somewhere else,” he continued.

Through its Energy & Innovation Institute, the PA Chamber has advocated for responsible development that includes transparent permitting, appropriate siting, reliable energy and water planning, and meaningful local engagement. The Institute has published an educational toolkit and developed a model ordinance to help local governments address those issues.

The Institute is working with policymakers, employers and community leaders on a statewide data center strategy designed to protect consumers and ratepayers, strengthen the electric grid, support local communities, and position Pennsylvania as a leader in innovation and economic growth.

Learn more about the PA Chamber’s Energy & Innovation Institute and the No Technology Pledge at www.pachamber.org/peii.