Homer City Station transforms into gas-powered data center campus

The transformation of Pennsylvania's Homer City Generating Station marks a significant shift in energy production and technological evolution. Once a prominent coal-fired power plant, the site will soon become a cutting-edge natural gas-powered data center, showcasing innovation in both power generation and digital infrastructure.

This redevelopment is poised to meet the increasing energy needs of artificial intelligence and high-performance computing, while fostering technological growth in a region not typically associated with digital innovation.

From Coal to Gas: The Evolution of a Brownfield Site

Originally established in 1969, the Homer City Generating Station was a major coal-fired plant in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, known for its massive 1,217-foot chimney—the tallest in the nation. Due to competitive pricing of natural gas and rising environmental compliance costs, owners decided to close the plant in April 2023. The site was officially decommissioned by July 2023, with demolition, including the iconic chimney, scheduled for completion by March 2025.

The site’s transformation is spearheaded by Homer City Redevelopment (HCR), in collaboration with Kiewit Power Constructors Co. The partnership aims to develop the 3,200-acre site into the Homer City Energy Campus, featuring a 4.5-gigawatt natural gas plant—the largest of its kind in the United States.

Adopting Advanced Gas Turbine Technology

The forthcoming plant will incorporate seven high-efficiency, hydrogen-enabled 7HA.02 gas turbines from GE Vernova, with the first deliveries anticipated in 2026. The 7HA.02 turbine is garnering attention in the power generation sector as power plants advance to the planning phase.

The 7HA.02 turbine is engineered for cutting-edge power applications, offering high efficiency, operational flexibility, and fuel adaptability. Key attributes include:

Power Output and Efficiency: The 7HA.02 provides a net output of about 384 MW with a net efficiency of 42.6% in simple cycle mode. In a 1x1 combined cycle, it reaches approximately 573 MW with 63.4% efficiency, and in a 2x1 combined cycle, it achieves around 1,148 MW with 63.6% efficiency.

Hydrogen Capability: Capable of burning up to 50% hydrogen by volume, the turbine is on track to handle 100% hydrogen, aligning with carbon emission reduction efforts in power generation.

Operational Flexibility: It can reach full load in under 30 minutes, adapting quickly to grid fluctuations. The turbine also allows turndown to about 33% of its load while maintaining emission standards during low-demand periods.

Fuel Versatility: The turbine accommodates various gaseous fuels, including natural gas, shale gas, and hydrogen, as well as liquid fuels like #2 diesel and crude oils, enhancing fuel use optimization.

Environmental Impact: Operating in a combined cycle, the 7HA.02 can significantly cut CO₂ emissions relative to traditional coal-fired plants, promoting cleaner energy solutions.

The 7HA.02 exemplifies the balance between high performance and environmental responsibility, making it ideal for modern power facilities.

As Scott Strazik, CEO of GE Vernova, commented to the media: