$25B+ Blackstone investment will support AI-driven digital infrastructure and new natural gas generation in Pennsylvania, with an estimated $60B in additional economic impact.
Over 6,000 jobs supported annually during construction; 3,000+ permanent jobs expected through QTS and customers post-build.
Blackstone-backed QTS to lead Pennsylvania data center expansion, with a joint venture formed with PPL for power generation to meet AI demands.
Blackstone will invest over $25 billion to expand Pennsylvania’s digital and energy infrastructure, a move expected to catalyze an additional $60 billion in private investment across the Commonwealth. The initiative is led by funds managed by Blackstone Infrastructure and Blackstone Real Estate, marking one of the firm’s largest commitments to AI-related infrastructure to date.
“We’re thrilled to be investing behind two of our highest conviction themes – digital infrastructure and energy – in a part of the country that is ideally situated to support and expand America’s leading position in the AI revolution,” said Jon Gray, President and COO of Blackstone.
The investment includes two anchor components:
QTS, the world’s largest independent data center operator and a Blackstone portfolio company, will develop multiple new data center sites across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
A joint venture with utility company PPL, headquartered in Allentown, will invest in natural gas power generation to supply the required energy for these AI infrastructure hubs.
“Pennsylvania is transforming into a strategic hub for AI innovation,” added Sean Klimczak, Global Head of Infrastructure at Blackstone. “We’re excited to work with our partners at PPL to invest in the generation needed to support this critical digital infrastructure.”
Over the course of a 10-year construction timeline, the projects are expected to create or support over 6,000 jobs annually, with QTS and its customers projected to maintain more than 3,000 permanent jobs once operational. Blackstone, known for its longstanding collaboration with labor, plans to continue that partnership locally.
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“This announcement is reflective of Blackstone’s track record of partnering with governments, local communities, and customers to create win-win-win outcomes,” said Nadeem Meghji, Blackstone’s Global Co-Head of Real Estate.
Pennsylvania’s low-cost, abundant energy—which supplies 20% of U.S. natural gas production—positions it as a strategic hub for AI development. The project will also utilize the state’s new Fast Track permitting system to streamline approvals and align with national AI priorities.
“Pennsylvania is well positioned for data center growth and has become a market where we’re seeing substantial demand from hyperscalers and other customers,” said Tag Greason, Co-CEO of QTS. “We look forward to engaging with communities and leaders across the Commonwealth.”
In addition to economic and infrastructure gains, Blackstone and QTS have pledged to actively support community outreach, volunteerism, and partnerships that align with Pennsylvania’s long-term energy and digital development goals.
Construction is expected to begin by year-end 2028, pending regulatory and utility approvals.
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