AI: Why Western PA?

About the Speakers

Peter Dailey | Founder & CEO, International Electric Power (IEP)

A veteran power markets leader who has executed over $3B in transactions. Since founding IEP in 2003, Peter has been at the forefront of delivering turnkey thermal and renewable energy projects that align infrastructure demands with environmental responsibility.

John Hamilton | SVP, Technology & Development, International Electric Power (IEP)

A telecommunications executive with 40 years of expertise in CX and AI strategy. John serves as a strategic implementation partner for businesses navigating the complexities of cloud infrastructure and enterprise transformation.

About the Talk

Western Pennsylvania is uniquely positioned to lead the AI revolution. During this session, John Hamilton and Peter Dailey explored how the region’s combination of world-class talent and robust energy infrastructure provides a strategic alternative to traditional tech hubs currently facing energy constraints.

Project Hummingbird: Powering the Future of AI

The centerpiece of the discussion was Project Hummingbird, a flagship IEP initiative in Greene County, PA. This massive hyperscale data center and power plant complex is transforming the former Robena Mine site into a global hub for AI and cloud computing.

Infrastructure & Innovation: The project features a dedicated "Power Island" with two natural gas turbines generating over 900 megawatts—enough to power nearly one million homes—on a reclaimed 1,400-acre brownfield site.

Economic Momentum: Developed in partnership with Essential Utilities, the initiative is projected to create 1,500 annual construction jobs over six years, eventually sustaining up to 250 permanent high-tech and utility roles.

The Timeline: With site approval secured in late 2025, construction is slated to begin in 2026, with the data center reaching completion by 2028.