Despite the yeoman’s work of so many in our business and labor sectors, Northwest Pennsylvania, which fired the furnaces of America’s Industrial Revolution, sinking the first oil well and pouring the steel that built the cities, has not enjoyed the same level of prosperity of 50 years ago. For too long, our region has been overlooked. That’s why Power Northwest was founded.
We’re a group of private sector and community leaders dedicated to restoring economic vitality and long-term prosperity to Northwest Pennsylvania. From strategic energy development to traditional manufacturing to ship-building on the Lake Erie shores, our work is built on a simple premise:
The new, information-driven economy needs the infrastructure to function. From Data Centers to the electrical generation to power them, Pennsylvania’s northwest offers a bounty of resources, from natural gas and water to a skilled and grounded workforce.
The roadmap for our mission came from rigorous analysis. In 2025, we commissioned Dr. Terry Bensel, a distinguished energy and economic policy expert, to conduct a comprehensive examination of the landscape facing northwest Pennsylvania. His report—provides the data-driven foundation for our strategy, detailing both the challenges we face and the unprecedented opportunities before us. This document isn’t just a study. It’s our blueprint for transformation. [Download The Bensel Report]
OUR VISION
To re-power northwest Pennsylvania and unlock the economic growth the region has been denied for more than 50 years, we envision a future where our communities grow, our workforce is employed in high-value jobs, and our region powers both itself and the broader success of Pennsylvania.
OUR MISSION
We plan to partner with private-sector leadership, capital, and influencers to attract and develop natural gas and nuclear energy facilities – alongside large-scale data centers – across northwest Pennsylvania. This is, however, one aspect of a larger all-of-the-above menu for job creation. We serve as the critical bridge between industry, government, and community, ensuring projects move from concept to reality.
WHY NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA?
WHY NOW?
THE CONVERGENCE OF THREE FACTORS MAKES
THIS MOMENT UNIQUE:
1
Energy Demand Surge:
The AI revolution and digital transformation are creating unprecedented electricity needs
2
Grid Reliability Concerns:
The growing questions about power reliability and affordability
3
Geopolitical Realities:
Domestic energy security has never been more critical
NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA STANDS
READY TO MEET THESE CHALLENGES WITH
ABUNDANT, AFFORDABLE NATURAL GAS RESOURCES
PROVEN NUCLEAR ENERGY EXPERTISE AND WORKFORCE
AVAILABLE LAND WITH NECESSARY INFRASTRUCTURE PROXIMITY
COMMUNITIES THAT WELCOME RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT
OUR STRATEGY & ACTION PLAN
Assemble Top Talent
Retain and support experienced professionals with proven track records in delivering complex energy and data center projects. Our team combines local knowledge with national expertise.
Streamline Development Pathways
Advocate for timely government financing, permitting, and regulatory approvals—removing unnecessary barriers while maintaining responsible standards for energy and data center development in the region.
Secure Strategic Partnerships
Work closely with key decision-makers across business, labor, and government to secure federal and state funding for economic projects. These partnerships ensure Northwest Pennsylvania’s priorities are represented—and heard—where it matters most. Our efforts are meant to be an addition, never a replacement, for county and regional economic development agencies.
Support Industry Growth
We will serve as a trusted resource for founders and supporters, helping businesses navigate regulatory environments, identify opportunities, and meet growing energy demands with reliable, affordable power, all while uniting communities in the shared goal of jobs and growth.
Champion Northwest Pennsylvania’s Story
When it comes to economic potential and a strong work ethic, Northwestern Pennsylvania has a strong story to tell. Our skilled workforce, strategic location within a day’s drive of 40% of the U.S. population, existing energy infrastructure, and communities ready to partner with responsible development make this region an obvious destination for business.