Story perspectives

AI Data Center Replaces Coal Plant, Sparks Energy Concerns

12/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

In Homer City, Pennsylvania, a coal plant is being replaced by an artificial intelligence (AI) data center complex, including seven gas generating stations.
The plant closed in 2023, reflecting a trend of large data centers emerging across the United States.
Data centers are projected to consume over 10% of the nation's power by 2030, raising energy costs and emissions and testing grid capacity, even as industry leaders tout clean-energy innovations.

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Story summary

In Homer City, Pennsylvania, a coal plant is being replaced by an artificial intelligence (AI) data center complex, including seven gas generating stations.
The plant closed in 2023, reflecting a trend of large data centers emerging across the United States.
Data centers are projected to consume over 10% of the nation's power by 2030, raising energy costs and emissions and testing grid capacity, even as industry leaders tout clean-energy innovations.