URGENT UPDATE: Residents of Conshohocken are mobilizing against a controversial proposal for a massive 2 million-square-foot data center, just a mile from the borough’s bustling downtown. The development, spearheaded by real estate mogul Brian O’Neill, would occupy the site of the former Cleveland-Cliffs steel mill on 66 acres along the Schuylkill River.
This proposal, which O’Neill claims could generate $21 million annually in tax revenues, has sparked fierce opposition among residents concerned about environmental impacts and rising energy costs. Earlier this month, the Plymouth Township planning board unanimously rejected the proposal, which is set to be revisited by the township’s zoning board on November 17. A petition opposing the project has already garnered over 370 signatures from local citizens.
“We want to raise awareness and ensure that people can advocate for themselves,” said Patti Smith, a resident who started the petition. “The developer’s plans were sprung upon us very quickly, and we don’t think the local municipalities are ready to have these conversations.”
As the demand for data centers surges, driven by the rise of power-hungry artificial intelligence, many locals fear they will face increased energy bills. Data centers, which house the servers crucial for internet operations, consume vast amounts of electricity and water. A recent report from the Department of Energy indicated that data center energy use has tripled over the past decade and could double again by 2028.
Concerns extend beyond energy consumption. Residents argue that the data center’s reliance on natural gas could contribute to air pollution, impacting local health. “The direct impact on our air is my biggest concern,” said Genevieve Boland, who is also leading the petition. “Research shows higher risks of cancer and respiratory issues associated with such facilities.”
O’Neill has stated that the proposed data center would utilize natural gas to generate its own energy, aiming to lessen its impact on the electric grid. However, critics point out that natural gas generation can emit greenhouse gases and contribute to climate change. Moreover, the proposed facility would use well water sourced from the Schuylkill River, raising questions about its sustainability and the potential depletion of local water supplies.
In response to local concerns, O’Neill has assured that the data center would recycle and reuse water to mitigate strain on resources. However, many residents remain skeptical. “Our immediate next steps are to drum up as much attention as we can in the community,” said Smith. “It’s crucial that people know what’s happening.”
The debate over the data center mirrors wider discussions in Pennsylvania, where state lawmakers are considering legislation to fast-track data center projects and streamline the permitting process. This comes amid a backdrop of increasing energy costs, with local consumers already facing rising bills due to grid strain attributed to existing data centers.
As the November hearing approaches, residents are determined to ensure their voices are heard. “We want to make sure that the community can speak for themselves,” Smith emphasized. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for future developments in the region, making it a pivotal moment for Conshohocken residents.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
