PPL's request for a substantial rate increase exceeding $356 million is meeting strong opposition, as evidenced by the first in a series of public hearings held by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Customers and elected officials gathered at the University of Scranton on Monday night to testify against the proposed higher energy rates. Many customers who spoke during the hearing expressed concern and conviction that the requested energy changes are directly tied to the development of data centers in the region. Residents still have several opportunities to voice their opinions, including another local in-person hearing scheduled for Thursday, December 18, at 6 p.m. in Wilkes-Barre, located in the Jean and Paul Adams Commons (JPAC Room) on the second floor of Wilkes University’s Henry Student Center (84 West South Street). Additionally, two telephonic public input hearings are set for Monday, December 15, at 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.