Community conversations around data centers are continuing with a recent meeting regarding a potential East Coventry data center, writes Evan Brandt for The Daily Local News.
On Nov. 13, East Coventry Township hosted its first public discussion regarding a proposal to adjust township zoning codes to specifically include data centers. The request came from Constellation Energy, which currently manages a nuclear power station in nearby Limerick Township.
Township manager Eugene Briggs received the request from Constellation’s legal representation on Oct. 22. The letter shared that Constellation purchased five parcels of land along Route 724 that are currently in industrial and commercial zoning districts.
The request from Constellation outlined the positives to the new data center, including economic and tax revenue benefits.
At the meeting, speakers voiced their skepticism about data centers, particularly concerns about noise, water usage, and environmental impact. The large, water-cooled supercomputer warehouses use significant energy and resources that concern both residents and planning commission members.
State Senator Katie Muth addressed the East Coventry Planning Commission at the recent meeting. Muth voiced her concerns about the risks of a data center, including the dangers of the batteries and generators typically used by these facilities.
The East Coventry data center discussion comes just days after a recent meeting regarding data center zoning language in East Vincent Township. The future of data centers in both townships remains unclear as both residents and township officials weigh their pros and cons.
Read more about the recent township discussion surrounding a potential East Coventry data center in The Daily Local News.
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