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 missed 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 are private sector leaders raising capital and building influence to attract investments in Northwest Pennsylvania with the focus on energy, defense, manufacturing and shipbuilding, as well as supporting reforms in healthcare and workforce development. Our organization serves as a critical bridge between industry, government, and the community to ensure these projects move successfully from concept to reality.
WHY NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA?
WHY NOW?
HERE’S OUR FOCUS:
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
OUR PURPOSE
Convene
We will convene leaders from business, industry, labor, academia, and government to inform and coordinate growth efforts.
Educate
We will educate stakeholders by sharing data, insights and emerging opportunities to strengthen our region and its workforce.
Advocate
We will advocate for policies, resources and investments that attract opportunity, support strategic industries and create a thriving future for Northwest Pennsylvania.