From Coal to Gas: Pennsylvania's Data Center Transformation
Key Ideas
  • The former coal-fired Homer City Generating Station in Pennsylvania will be transformed into a $10 billion natural gas-powered data center campus.
  • The data center campus will have seven gas-fired turbines capable of providing up to 4.5 gigawatts of electricity, making it the nation's largest gas-fired power plant.
  • Construction is set to begin in 2022, with power expected to start flowing by 2027, potentially supplying electricity to the wider power grid.
  • The project also includes adapting the turbines to run on a hydrogen blend, showcasing a commitment to sustainable energy practices in line with the energy demands of Big Tech companies.
The former Homer City Generating Station in Pennsylvania, once a coal-fired power plant, is set for a remarkable transformation. Owners have announced plans to convert the site into a cutting-edge $10 billion natural gas-powered data center campus. The project aims to cater to the increasing energy needs of Big Tech companies for artificial intelligence and cloud computing applications. The data center campus will feature seven gas-fired turbines that can generate up to 4.5 gigawatts of electricity. This capacity would make it the largest gas-fired power plant in the nation and the third-largest power generation facility overall. The construction is projected to commence this year, with electricity production slated to begin by 2027. The site's existing infrastructure from the coal plant, including transmission lines and substations, will be utilized for the new development. The project developers have also secured a state grant to extend a gas line to the property, tapping into the nearby Marcellus Shale natural gas reservoir. Notably, the turbines planned for the data center can operate using a hydrogen blend, showcasing a commitment to sustainable practices. The move from coal to natural gas aligns with the evolving energy landscape driven by the increasing demand for AI and cloud computing services. The surge in demand for power-intensive applications like AI has spurred interest in new power sources and infrastructure investments. This transformation signifies a significant capital investment in Pennsylvania, signaling a shift towards cleaner and more efficient energy solutions in line with the demands of modern technology.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.