The Greater Hazleton Chamber will host an educational program, “Red Carpet 101: Data Centers and Energy Impacts,” on Wednesday, April 1, from 7:45 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Sand Springs Country Club in Drums, PA. The event includes a buffet breakfast and offers business professionals, and community members an opportunity to learn about the growing data center industry and its impact on local economies and infrastructure.

The program will feature insights from the Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development’s new study, “Exploring the Dynamics Surrounding Data Centers in Northeastern Pennsylvania.”Jill Avery Stoss, President of the Institute, will present the study, highlighting that data center impacts vary widely depending on design, siting, governance, and integration with local systems. Community outcomes are shaped by policies, planning frameworks, and infrastructure strategies, including energy sourcing, cooling systems, land use, and regulatory oversight, determining whether a facility becomes a regional asset or a local burden.

To see the study follow the link here: Energy-TF_Data-Centers-in-NEPA_The-Institute-f.pdf

Joining the discussion, Amy Brinton, Director of Government Affairs for the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, will provide context on the legislative and policy landscape. Brinton brings extensive experience in energy and utility policy, having helped draft and advance legislation on renewable energy and the Pennsylvania Broadband Authority during her tenure as Government Affairs Manager at Duquesne Light.

The session will give participants a foundational understanding of the data center industry, its economic potential, and the complex interconnections with energy and municipal planning. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with speakers to understand how data centers could affect local communities.

“We know this developing industry is impacting many municipalities in our area, each at a different stage in evaluation ” said Mary Malone, President and CEO of the Greater Hazleton Chamber. “The Chamber is committed to helping our communities understand the industry and its interconnection to energy and other complex issues.”

Networking and a buffet breakfast begin at 7:45 a.m., followed by the educational program. Interested participants can register through the Greater Hazleton Chamber website or call 570-455-1509. Registration closes on Friday, March 27 or when we reach capacity. Attendees are encouraged to participate in the business card drop for a chance to win a free breakfast to be used at a future Red Carpet event. You can see other events of the Chamber’s calendar at www.hazletonchamber.org.