Homer City Redevelopment (HCR) and Kiewit Power Constructors unveiled plans to transform Pennsylvania’s former Homer City Generating Station into the largest natural gas-powered data center campus in the U.S.. The redevelopment of the 3,200-acre site marks a significant shift from coal-fired power generation to a state-of-the-art energy and computing hub, designed to support the surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC). The project is expected to deliver up to 4.5 gigawatts (GW) of power, with construction commencing this year and initial power generation set for 2027.
The Homer City Energy Campus will bring a host of economic and environmental benefits. It will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 60–65% per megawatt-hour compared to the decommissioned coal plant. With seven GE Vernova 7HA.02 hydrogen-enabled gas turbines, the facility will provide reliable power for AI-driven hyperscale data centers while also supplying thousands of homes in the region. According to the company press release, the initiative will create over 10,000 construction jobs and generate approximately 1,000 permanent high-paying positions in technology, operations, and energy infrastructure. Moreover, the project’s initial $10 billion capital investment—the largest in Pennsylvania’s history—will spur additional billions in data center development and regional economic growth.
HCR president and CEO William Wexler emphasized the project’s role in Pennsylvania’s energy transition, stating that it will uphold Homer City’s legacy while positioning the state as a leader in AI and digital infrastructure. The strategic location and existing transmission infrastructure—including connections to the PJM and NYISO power grids—provide a significant competitive advantage, ensuring a seamless transition for this massive redevelopment. Additionally, natural gas sourced from the Marcellus Shale Region will enhance energy security and address the nation’s growing power demands for AI and cloud computing.
Knighthead Capital Management, a long-time investor in Homer City, is leading the project’s financing. Partner Andrew Shannahan highlighted the critical role of the energy campus in securing America’s AI and energy dominance, while GE Vernova CEO Scott Strazik pointed to the economic revitalization and job creation associated with the investment. Kiewit Power Constructors executive vice-president Dave Flickinger praised the swift progress made to ensure the project remains on track while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.
The Homer City transformation reflects a broader trend of repurposing traditional energy infrastructure for next-generation technology demands. As AI and cloud computing drive exponential increases in electricity consumption, large-scale projects like this will be essential in meeting future energy needs while fostering economic growth and reducing carbon emissions. With its unmatched scale and strategic partnerships, the Homer City Energy Campus is poised to become a cornerstone of the digital economy in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.
