Blackstone has announced plans to invest over $25bn into Pennsylvania’s digital and energy infrastructure, in a major initiative expected to catalyse an additional $60bn of investment into the state. 

The commitment will be made through Blackstone Infrastructure and Blackstone Real Estate funds, marking one of the firm’s most ambitious infrastructure strategies to date.

The project aims to transform Pennsylvania into a strategic hub supporting America’s AI growth. As part of the plan, Blackstone-backed QTS, currently the world’s largest independent data centre operator, will lead development of new sites across Northeastern Pennsylvania. QTS has secured multiple land parcels and is preparing to invite additional communities to participate in the expansion.

Blackstone has also formed a joint venture with PPL, a leading utility headquartered in Allentown, to develop natural gas power generation facilities aimed at meeting the energy demands of the growing AI sector.

The initiative is expected to create or support more than 6,000 jobs annually over a 10-year construction period, with more than 3,000 permanent positions supported through QTS and its customers once operations commence.

“Pennsylvania is transforming into a strategic hub for AI innovation,” said 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.”

The firm cited Pennsylvania’s low-cost energy and significant share of national natural gas production, currently 20%, as key drivers behind the location choice. Blackstone and QTS also plan to leverage Pennsylvania’s newly introduced ‘Fast Track’ permitting system to accelerate development timelines.

Construction is expected to begin by year-end 2028, pending regulatory approvals.

If you think we missed any important news, please do not hesitate to contact us at news@pe-insights.com.

Can`t stop reading? Read more.