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Join Sustainable Pittsburgh for a February 3 webinar

This timely webinar examines the rapid growth of AI data centers and what it means for energy systems, communities, and our environment.

As demand for artificial intelligence accelerates, data centers are expanding across the country.

They bring economic opportunity alongside significant electricity use, water demand, and infrastructure impacts. For regions like Pennsylvania, these facilities raise important questions about grid reliability, land use, emissions, and long-term sustainability.

This session will explore how data centers operate, the scale of their environmental footprint, and the policy tools available to guide development in more energy-efficient and climate-aligned ways.

Speakers will share examples from across the country, discuss emerging approaches to clean energy procurement and efficiency, and examine the role of state and local decision-makers, utilities, businesses, and advocates.

We’ll also consider how thoughtful planning today can support economic competitiveness while advancing environmental responsibility tomorrow.

Click Here to register and for more information.

Visit the Sustainable Pittsburgh website for more information on initiatives, programs and upcoming events.

Related Articles This Week:

-- House Energy Committee To Consider Bill Giving PUC More Authority To Regulate A.I. Data Centers Jan. 26; Hearings On Related Bills Jan. 26 and Feb. 2 [PaEN]

-- Utility Dive: PJM Updates 20-Year Forecast Of Electricity Demand Growth, Reducing Short Term Growth Estimates By Up To 2.6%, Increasing 2035 Estimate By 3.3% [PaEN]

-- PJM Interconnection: 2025 Year In Review Part III: Planning Prepares For Burgeoning A.I. Data Center Electricity Demand [PaEN]

-- PennTAP Now Accepting Applications For RISE PA Decarbonization Grants For Small, Mid-Sized Manufacturers [PaEN]

-- Sustainable Pittsburgh Hosts Feb. 3 Webinar On A.I. Data Centers - Energy, Infrastructure, Policy Implications [PaEN]

-- ReImagine Appalachia Hosts Feb. 5 Webinar On Catching Heat: Opportunities, Challenges Of Using Waste Heat From A.I. Data Centers [PaEN]

-- Cameron County Chamber Of Commerce To Install Solar Energy Installation At The Artisan & Economic Innovation CenterTo Offset 100% Of Energy Consumption [PaEN]

-- Pennsylvania Solar Center: Jan. 23 Webinar On State Solar For Schools Grants & Free GET Solar Schools Technical Assistance [PaEN]

-- PA Leads The Nation In Constructing Federally Funded Electric Vehicle Charging Stations With 28 Now Open; Deadline For New Applications Jan. 30 [PaEN]

-- Center For Rural Pennsylvania: Number Of Electric Vehicles, EV Charging Stations Per County ]

NewsClips:

-- City & State PA Guest Essay: Your Energy Bill Keeps Rising, Here’s What We Can Do About It - By Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (D-Philadelphia), Majority Chair, House Energy Committee

-- PUC Approves Rate Increases For Wellsboro Electric (18.1%), Valley Energy-Gas (12.2%), Citizens’ Electric Of Lewisburg (6.8%)

-- Marcellus Drilling News: US EIA Predicts Price Of Natural Gas To Dip 2% In 2026, Increase 33% In 2027 Driven By LNG Gas Exports [PDF of Article]

-- Marcellus Drilling News: Expand Energy CEO: Natural Gas Drillers Won’t Add New Production At $3.50 Gas Price-- $4.00 to $4.50 Is Needed To ‘Activate Supply Growth’ [PDF of Article]

-- Spotlight PA: Many PA Residents Don’t Want A.I. Data Centers In Their Communities; PA State Leaders Are Welcoming Them

-- Wilkes-Barre Times-Leader: Dallas Twp. , Luzerne County Residents Fill Public Hearing Space In Support Of A.I. Data Center Zoning Ordinance Limiting Centers To Industrial Zones

-- WITF: Republican Candidate For Governor Stacy Garrity Says ‘A Lot Of Areas’ In Rural PA Could House Data Centers For A.I. Growth

-- Scranton Times - Chris Kelly Opinion: A.I. Data Centers Call For Hawks, Not Canaries [PDF of Article]

-- Scranton Times - Chris Kelly Opinion: DEP Hearing Exposes Gravity Of The ‘Comically Speculative Nature’ Of A.I. Data Center Development [PDF of Article]

-- Capital & Main - Audrey Carleton: Will Homer City, An Old Pennsylvania Coal Town, Get A Reboot From 3,200 Acre A.I. Data Center Campus?

-- TribLive: TECfusions Announces First Tenant In Upper Burrell Twp. A.I. Data Center In Allegheny County; 10 MW Needed, Scaling Up To 1 GW

-- AP: Microsoft Pushes Big Tech To ‘Pay Our Way’ For A.I. Data Centers Amid Rising Opposition [PA Highlighted]

-- Talen Energy Buys 3 Natural Gas Power Plants In Ohio, Indiana To Service Growing Data Center Demand

-- Wall Street Journal: America’s Biggest Power Grid Operator [PJM] Has An A.I. Program - Too Many Data Centers Threaten To Max Out Generation Capacity, Rate Increases Anger Consumers [PDF of Article]

-- Public News Service: Clean Energy Boom Adding Much-Needed Electric Generating Capacity To Grid In PA Threatened As Federal Funding Stalls

-- Post-Gazette - Anya Litvak: EOS Energy Storage Company Calls A.I. Data Centers An ‘Accelerant’ For Company’s Batteries

-- Utility Dive: US Senate Bill Would Exempt Fully Isolated A.I. Data Centers, Other Large Loads From FERC, DOE Regulation

-- AP: US Carbon Pollution Rose In 2025, Experts Blame Cold Weather, High Natural Gas Prices, Data Centers

-- Post-Gazette: Sen. McCormick Says He Will Recuse Himself From Issues Specific To Facebook/Meta With His Wife’s New Role As Meta President

[Posted: January 16, 2026] PA Environment Digest

PITTSBURGH, PA — A former player at a Pittsburgh-area university was one of 20 people indicted Thursday on charges related to fixing college basketball games in the U.S. and professional basketball games in China.

Fifteen of the people named in the 70-page indictment were basketball players; the other five were "fixers" who set up the rigging of games by paying the players between $10,000 and $30,000 per game fixed.

Court papers unsealed Thursday revealed charges of bribery, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and aiding and abetting.

Former Robert Morris basketball player Markeese Hastings' play in two games in noted in the indictment. It states that Hastings and two other players underperformed in and influenced the first half of a game against Northern Kentucky in 2024.

The fixers placed bets with various sportsbooks totaling at least $256,000 on Northern Kentucky to cover the first-half spread, the indictment says.

"Without Robert Morris players intentionally underperforming in the second half of the game, Robert Morris played substantially better, with Robert Morris outscoring Northern Kentucky 37 to 29," the indictment states.

The other two Robert Morris players were not named in the court document.

In the second game, Robert Morris played Purdue University Fort Wayne in a postseason game in the first round of the Horizon League Basketball Championships at the Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne, Indiana, according to the indictment. The fixers allegedly placed wagers totaling at least $50,000 on Purdue F.W. to cover the first-half spread.

Hastings and the other two players allegedly underperformed in the game’s first half, influencing the game so that Purdue would outscore RMU 46-28. The fixers subsequently won their bets.

The indictment also noted that two games involving Duquesne University allegedly were impacted by the scheme, but no Duquesne players were involved. Those games involved players from St. Louis University and Fordham University.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Scattered snow showers are moving across the Pittsburgh area early Thursday morning, leaving a coating of snow on untreated roads and surfaces and creating hazardous travel conditions for commuters, according to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh.

A 5 a.m. radar update shows snow showers affecting much of western Pennsylvania, including the Pittsburgh metro area, with light accumulations occurring primarily on bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads. While snowfall amounts are expected to remain minor, the timing during the morning commute increases the risk for slick spots and reduced traction.

The National Weather Service warns that untreated surfaces may quickly become snow-covered, particularly where temperatures remain cold enough to prevent melting. Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distances, and allow extra travel time during the morning hours.

Road conditions may vary significantly over short distances, as snow showers are scattered rather than continuous. Some locations may experience brief bursts of snow that temporarily reduce visibility and road grip before tapering off.

Temperatures early this morning remain cold enough for snow to stick, especially on elevated surfaces. As traffic increases, conditions may improve on main roadways, but caution is advised throughout the commute period.

No significant additional snowfall amounts are expected at this time, but even light snow can cause accidents when road temperatures are near or below freezing.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local traffic conditions and weather updates through the morning. Employers and schools may see delays tied to localized travel issues.

Commuters, delivery drivers, and early-shift workers in the Pittsburgh area should be prepared for slick and variable driving conditions through the morning hours.

PFL makes its first stop in the US in 2026 at the UPMC Events Center for PFL Pittsburgh on March 28The event is headlined by a middleweight main event, as former World Champion Johnny Eblen squares off against highly anticipated PFL newcomer Bryan BattleA Middleweight clash takes place in the co-main event as Pittsburgh’s Own Dalton Rosta is set to face former PFL Champion Impa KasanganayTicketmaster Pre-sale Begins Tuesday, January 27 at 10:00 am ET and Tickets go On-sale Thursday, January 29 at 10:00 am ETPFL Pittsburgh will be Broadcast and Streamed in 170 Countries, available in the U.S. on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes

NEW YORK (January 13, 2026) – The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is making their debut in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the UPMC Events Center on Saturday, March 28. In the Main Event, Johnny “Pressure” Eblen (16-1) will face Bryan “The Butcher” Battle (12-2-1 NC).

The Co-Main event will see Pittsburgh’s own Dalton “Hercules” Rosta (11-2) return to action after reaching the Finals of the 2025 PFL World Tournament, and will look to impose his physicality in a tough test in front of the Steel City crowd. He will face Congo’s Impa “Tshilobo” Kasanganay (19-6) in what will be a classic rivalry between two of the best gyms in South Florida, American Top Team and Kill Cliff, where both athletes currently reside.

Pre-sale tickets for the event will be available on Tuesday, January 27 at 10:00 am ET, and general sale tickets will be available on Thursday, January 29 at 10:00 am ET via Ticketmaster. For more information on tickets, visit http://pfl.info/pittsburgh. Additional bouts will be announced shortly.

Eblen will enter the cage in Pittsburgh looking to remind the world why he is one of the best Middleweights in MMA. After a dramatic finish in Cape Town costing him the title, “Pressure” has a renewed focus to come and make a statement, and reassert the dominance that led him to 16 straight wins in his professional MMA career before his last fight. Widely considered as one of the best 185 lb fighters, expect a big performance from the former Bellator champion.

Battle, who signed with the PFL late last year as one of the most sought-after free agents in mixed martial arts, will make his PFL debut on March 28 and immediately face one of the toughest tests of his MMA career. A former winner of The Ultimate Fighter, Battle is known for his all-action style, most recently recording back-to-back first-round finishes in Dirty Boxing Championship after compiling a 10–2 record that included nine fights in the UFC. He now has an opportunity to rapidly elevate his standing in the PFL by taking on one of the best fighters in the division, entering the matchup confident in his ability to defeat Eblen.

“The PFL is excited to make its debut in one of the most passionate and storied sports towns in America when we visit Pittsburgh,” said PFL CEO John Martin. “This city has a deep-rooted sports culture and fans who consistently show up and support their teams at the highest level. Bringing the PFL to Pittsburgh marks a major milestone for us, and it’s especially meaningful as it will be the city’s first MMA show in nearly 10 years. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable night of world-class mixed martial arts and introducing the PFL experience to a fanbase that truly appreciates elite competition.”

The Main Card will be available in the U.S. on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes at 10:00 pm ET/7:00 pm PT. The early card will begin at 7:00 pm ET/4:00 pm PT on the ESPN App for fans with access to the ESPN Unlimited plan.

PFL Pittsburgh Main Card:

UPMC Events Center, Pittsburgh, PA

March 28 | 10 pm ET

ESPN2 & ESPN Deportes (US)

PFL Middleweight Main Event: Johnny Eblen (16-1) vs. Bryan Battle (12-2, 1 NC)

PFL Middleweight Co-Main Event: Dalton Rosta (11-2) vs. Impa Kasanganay (19-6)

BACK TO NEWS

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers lost their seventh straight playoff game, continuing their playoff win drought that has lasted since the 2016 season, falling to the Houston Texans in a 31-6 blowout.

The Texans won the toss, electing to defer to the Steelers for the first possession of the game.

The Steelers took the field, with Aaron Rodgers helming the team at quarterback. Chunk plays by running back Jaylen Warren and wide receiver DK Metcalf moved the Steelers to midfield, but the drive stalled and the Steelers sent Corliss Waitman out to punt.

On the ensuing Texans drive, quarterback C.J. Stroud found wide receiver Christian Kirk for a 36 yard pass, but the drive stalled after a pressure by edge rusher T.J. Watt. A punt by Tommy Townsend ensued, with it landing only 22 yards downfield to land at the Steelers 28-yard line.

The coming Steelers drive started with a big play by Metcalf, who grabbed a pass by quarterback Aaron Rodgers for a 25-yard gain. After small gains found the team nearly within the redzone, a missed pass to tight end Jonnu Smith made it all the more important to gain points. A missed pass to wide receiver Calvin Austin III made it third down with ten to go, and a Marques Valdez-Scantling catch landed short of the line to gain. A Chris Boswell field goal attempt was good, and the Steelers took a 3-0 lead. This was their first lead in their last ten quarters of playoff football, dating back to their game against the Chiefs on Jan 16, 2022.

When the Texans took the field, running back Woody Marks was able to keep the drive alive early despite tough tackles by the Steelers' defense. On a third down play across midfield, Stroud found wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson against Steeler's wideout against James Pierre for a 16 yard gain. On the following play, linebacker Jack Sawyer forced a strip sack which was recovered by Steelers' nose tackle Yahya Black to complete a turnover and give the Steelers the football.

A drop by Metcalf on a strong throw by Rodgers slowed the momentum on second down by the Steelers, but a pass by Valdes-Scantling set up a fourth-down-and-long. The ensuing Waitman punt landed within the 10-yard line, setting up tough field position for the Texans.

Texans Emerge Above The Pressure

The Texans, however, were undaunted. Stroud moved down the field with ease, as Marks helped to move the team into favorable field position to make it Texans ball within the Steelers 40 yard line. Then, Marks found a twenty yard gain before Stroud found Kirk for a six-yard pass to make it 7-3.

The ensuing Steelers drive resulted in a three-and-out. Following that, the Steelers defense took the field to continue the game. After a 4-yard rush by Marks, edge rusher T.J Watt forced a fumble that was recovered by nose tackle Keeanu Benton for a fumble recovery on the Texans 23-yard line. After a drive that saw the Steelers find a first down before Rodgers was sacked, Boswell returned once again to give the Steelers 3 more points on a 35-yard field goal. The Texans led 7-6 as the two-minute warning hit.

Stroud and the Texans were unable to gain significant ground, leading to a punt with time expiring in the second quarter. The Texans were set to take over as the second half begun.

Stroud and the Texans took the field, and Stroud was able to find wide receiver Jayden Higgins for a quick first down to begin the half. Back to back gains of 14 yards each had the Texans just outside the redzone with the Houston offense rolling. Back to back rushes by Marks got the Texans to the redzone. After a pass to tight end Dalton Schultz, Stroud evaded a sack to try to pass. When he did so, he forced a pass near the goal line, and defensive back Brandin Echols intercepted the football to give the Steelers the ball down 6-7.

A false start began the Steelers' drive, and a pass to Calvin Austin lost yards to begin the drive. On third down and nine, Rodgers found Valdes-Scantling for a first down to keep the drive alive. On third down and long, Calvin Austin III was targeted by Rodgers, and was contacted but did not draw a flag, forcing a Waitman punt.

The Texans' drive saw the first three-and-out by the team's offense, with one catch, an incomplete pass and a sack forcing a 60-yard Townsend punt that gave the Steelers the ball at the 24-yard line.

A catch by Adam Thielen for 21 yards began the drive for the Steelers, as they began to attempt to take advantage of a one-point game late in the third quarter. After that, passes to tight end Jonnu Smith and miscommunication led to a 14-yard loss on a Rodgers fumble that forced a Waitman punt. The Texans took over from the Steelers 24 yard line.

Steelers Offense Can't Find A Point

The first big play of the second half came on a third down conversion with time winding down in the third quarter. Stroud found Kirk for a 49 yard gain to put the Texans at the Steelers 36-yard line. The Texans found it quite easy to move towards the Steelers redzone, but their drive stalled and they were forced to rely on a Ka'imi Fairbairn field goal to make it 10-6 Texans as the fourth quarter began.

After a fourteen yard gain by Gainwell on the ground, an incomplete pass and a loss on the ground by Gainwell led to a Rodgers fumble that Texans defensive lineman Sheldon Rankings returned for a 33-yard touchdown. With 11:23 to play, the Steelers trailed 17-6.

Despite tight end Pat Freiermuth gaining a first down quickly, the Steelers would punt on fourth down on the next set of downs to give the Texans the ball back with 9:36 remaining. A nearly immediate first down drained the clock more for the Texans, and a Kirk gain for 33 yards let the clock go below 5 minutes to play. A flag by linebacker Nick Herbig put the Texans half the distance to the goal line, which allowed them to set up a Woody Marks touchdown to make it 24-6 after a Fairbairn extra point.

Back to back passes found themselves incomplete, and the Gainwell reception on third down was well short of the line to gain. Rodgers' fourth down pass was intercepted by Calen Bullock, who took it into the end zone to make it 30-6 on a 50-yard pick six.

A drive by the Steelers went three-and-out, with Mason Rudolph running the offense instead of Rodgers. Warren got the offense on the Texans' side of the field, but the time expired.

The Steelers' season ended with a Wild Card loss, falling to the Texans 30-6.