As massive data centers continue to rise across the region, Pennsylvania lawmakers are moving to increase transparency around how the state’s electrical grid is managed, writes Frank Kummer for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
A new bill introduced this week gives the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) greater oversight of PJM Interconnection. The Audubon grid operator is responsible for managing electricity flow across 13 states. The legislation is part of the state’s broader budget deal. It calls for annual reviews of PJM’s energy forecasts and new scrutiny over large power requests. The legislation targets industrial users as well as data centers.
Supporters say the measure aims to ensure accuracy, accountability, and fairness in the process that determines future grid capacity. This is a key factor influencing electric bills for households and businesses alike. PJM said it supports the effort. They noted it has already recommended a review process to help “vet requests by data centers and other large electricity users.”
Governor Josh Shapiro and regional leaders have criticized PJM’s opaque forecasting methods. Shapiro argues that inflated demand projections may be contributing to higher consumer costs. The PUC will now be required to validate load forecasts and issue an annual report to the legislature by June 30.
To learn more about this legislation, visit The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on MONTCO.Today in November 2025.
