Informed decision-making through research
The Center for Energy and the Built Environment (CEBE) conducts original research and curates resources from credible academic, governmental, industry, and nonprofit organizations to help decision-makers better understand complex issues related to energy, infrastructure, buildings, sustainability, and community development. Our work is designed to support informed dialogue and practical problem-solving by translating research and data into accessible insights for policymakers, practitioners, educators, students, and community stakeholders.
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In addition to producing original reports, policy analyses, and applied research projects, CEBE serves as a resource hub that highlights timely information, emerging trends, and evidence-based perspectives relevant to the built environment and energy sectors. The Center’s research reflects its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, public engagement, and real-world impact at the local, regional, and national levels.
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Please note that some reports and resources included in this section were originally published by the Center for Energy Policy and Management, which has since evolved into the Center for Energy and the Built Environment. These materials remain an important part of the Center’s research archive and continue to inform and support CEBE’s ongoing work and mission
Featured research
Clouds on the horizon: an integrative review of data centers and local governance in the United States
This study synthesizes sprawling literature on various aspects of data center development, including energy and water use, siting, jobs, tax revenue, community impacts, and regulation, into one coherent picture. Dr. Corey Young, Director of the CEBE, argues this fragmentation has left local officials unprepared for an industry that is reshaping their grids, watersheds, land markets, and budgets in real time. Read the full study HERE.
Built to last? An examination of deteriorating US school buildings and regional disparities
This study uses national building data to examine the condition of K-12 school facilities across the United States, with particular attention to aging infrastructure, outdated systems, and uneven patterns of modernization. Young finds that many school buildings have not received major upgrades since 2000, and that regional disparities shape whether schools have newer HVAC systems, roofs, windows, insulation, and other critical building components. The study argues that school infrastructure is not just a facilities issue, but an educational equity, health, energy, and regional investment challenge. Read the full study HERE.
Data center tools and resources
As artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital services continue to expand, data centers are becoming an increasingly important part of the nation's infrastructure landscape. While these facilities can provide economic development opportunities and support critical digital services, they also raise questions related to electricity demand, water use, land development, and local planning. CEBE's Resource Library provides nonpartisan, research-based information to help communities better understand these issues. The following guides provide a brief overview of various aspects of data center development.
Understanding Different Types of Data Centers
Not all data centers are the same. This short guide gives an introduction to the common types of data centers mentioned in the news and at community meetings.
Past Reports
"A Distributed-Generation Solution for Pennsylvania’s Energy Future" details how rising capacity market prices in the PJM region, aging transmission infrastructure, and growing electricity demand are placing increasing pressure on Pennsylvania ratepayers. It argues that distributed generation—energy produced close to where it is used—can provide a cost-effective, reliable energy solution that empowers consumers and communities alike. Community solar, which allows ratepayers to subscribe to a shared local solar project and receive credit on their utility bill for the energy produced, is highlighted as one of the most promising models within distributed generation.
“The Future of Geothermal in Pennsylvania," backed by Project InnerSpace in collaboration with W&J's CEPM and other contributors from Pennsylvania institutions, evaluated the potential scale of geothermal energy in the Commonwealth, and found widespread opportunities to use the Earth’s natural and abundant subsurface heat for Pennsylvania’s residential, commercial, agricultural, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical sectors.
Harnessing Hydrogen Policy Brief
Read the policy brief based on research and information gathered at the CEPM's inaugural summit on hydrogen energy and CCUS
Harnessing Hydrogen Final Report
Read the final document summarizing key findings from the CEPM's inaugural summit on hydrogen energy and CCUS