PPL transmission line proposal adds new layer to Gregg Township data center fight

PPL describes the high voltage project as needed to meet "growing energy needs" and support "new customer facilities." This language almost certainly refers to PNK Group's proposed data center at Great Stream Commons, residents say. PPL has not confirmed that connection publicly.

Several potential routes shown for the proposed transmission corridor in PPL's outreach materials appear to cross residential properties, farmland, and portions of state game lands.

The corridor would require the construction of steel monopole towers ranging from 90 to 180 feet tall, which is about six to 12 times the average home's height in Allenwood. 

This proposed development confirms the project's footprint extends well beyond the building itself, stoking many residents' concerns, Matthew DeWire of the Concerned Citizens of Gregg Township (CCGT) said. 

"Who pays those transmission fees? Because it certainly sounds like the public could ultimately be subsidizing infrastructure built primarily for a private data center project," DeWire said. 

Construction of the transmission line, pending approval from the Pa. Public Utility Commission, is anticipated to begin in winter 2027 and conclude by winter 2029.

"What originally appeared to be a zoning issue involving a single facility is increasingly raising broader questions about long-term infrastructure expansion, environmental impacts, and the regional burden being placed on local communities," DeWire said.

At the May 4 Gregg Township meeting, several residents expressed concerns regarding the proposed data center's potential water usage rates, as well, citing  the Amazon Web Services data center complex in Salem Township recently requesting to increase their water usage to 270,000 gallons per day.

PPL has scheduled an informational open house for June 3 at the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Co. in Montgomery, just two days after Gregg Township's public hearing on proposed zoning amendments tied to PNK's data center project.

CCGT said it expects a large turnout at the June 1 hearing and is continuing to organize residents and prepare testimony. Written public comments will be accepted ahead of the hearing and entered into the record.