Around the Local

Administration Targets Solar and Wind with Tighter Federal Permitting

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/17/solar-wind-permit-interior-department-burgum-trump.html

The Trump administration has implemented new federal permitting requirements that mandate Interior Secretary Doug Burgum personally approve all solar and wind energy projects on federal lands and waters. This "elevated review" process covers more than 68 activities ranging from leases to construction permits, effectively placing renewable energy projects under heightened scrutiny that could significantly slow approvals and construction timelines. The directive eliminates what the administration calls "preferential treatment" for renewables compared to fossil fuel and nuclear projects. Source: cnbc.com

Spector, McCarthy : Will the AI Boom Be Powered by Big, Slow Energy Projects?

https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/utilities/will-the-ai-boom-be-powered-by-big-slow-energy-projects

Industry experts examine whether large-scale, traditional energy infrastructure projects can adequately meet the rapidly growing power demands of artificial intelligence data centers and computing facilities. The article explores the tension between AI's immediate energy needs and the lengthy development timelines typically required for major power generation projects, questioning if utilities can adapt quickly enough to support the AI revolution. Source: canarymedia.com

Quigley : What Wasn't Discussed at Pennsylvania's AI Summit

https://kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu/commentary/blog/what-wasnt-discussed-at-pennsylvanias-ai-summit/

A critical analysis of Pennsylvania's recent AI summit highlighting key topics and considerations that were overlooked during discussions about the state's artificial intelligence strategy and development. The commentary examines gaps in the conversation around AI implementation, infrastructure needs, and policy considerations that could impact Pennsylvania's position in the growing AI economy. Source: kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu

PA Lawmakers Launch Effort to Reclaim Steelmaking Dominance

https://www.pahouse.com/InTheNews/NewsRelease/?id=139483

Pennsylvania state legislators have initiated a comprehensive effort to restore the commonwealth's historical leadership position in steel manufacturing and production. The initiative aims to leverage Pennsylvania's industrial heritage, existing infrastructure, and strategic advantages to compete in the modern steel market while potentially creating jobs and economic opportunities across the state's traditional manufacturing regions. Source: pahouse.com

CoreWeave Commits $6B to PA Data Center

https://www.reuters.com/business/coreweave-commits-6-billion-ai-data-center-pennsylvania-2025-07-15/

AI cloud computing firm CoreWeave announces plans to invest up to $6 billion in a new data center in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, starting with a 100 MW facility expandable to 300 MW, as part of the Trump administration's push to maintain US leadership in AI technology.