Will an old Pennsylvania coal town get a reboot from AI?
3 minute readPublished: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 2:00 pm
Homer City, Pennsylvania: A Coal Town's AI-Powered Transformation
Homer City, a Pennsylvania town formerly reliant on a large coal-fired power plant, is poised for a potential economic rebirth. The old plant, once a major employer, closed in 2023, leaving the community seeking new opportunities. A new gas-fired power plant is planned, with the primary purpose of supplying data centers. This project promises over 10,000 construction jobs and 1,000 permanent jobs, according to the owners.
The new plant, expected to be operational by 2027, will generate more than double the energy output of its predecessor. However, it is also projected to release significantly more greenhouse gasses, equivalent to millions of cars on the road. Concerns have been raised about the environmental impact, including air and water usage. The plant's owners have not specified how much water the data centers will need.
The project has garnered support from President Donald Trump and is part of a broader trend of data center development in Pennsylvania, fueled by the artificial intelligence boom. However, some residents and environmental groups express skepticism. They worry about the environmental consequences, the potential for profits to flow to distant tech companies, and the long-term economic benefits for the community. Some experts question the job projections, and the potential for rising utility bills.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has approved the air permit for the plant, despite objections from environmental groups. The project faces additional permit approvals.
BNN's Perspective:
While the promise of jobs is enticing for Homer City, the long-term environmental and economic impacts of this project require careful consideration. The potential for increased pollution and strain on local resources must be weighed against the anticipated economic benefits. A balanced approach that prioritizes both economic growth and environmental sustainability is crucial for the community's future.
Keywords: Homer City, Pennsylvania, gas plant, data centers, AI, jobs, environment, pollution, greenhouse gasses, water usage, economic impact, energy, emissions, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Homer City Redevelopment, construction jobs, utility bills.