AWS’ data center next to a nuclear plant in Salem Township. – Talen | Cumulus
Though some might disagree, Pennsylvania claims to be the birthplace of artificial intelligence. AI research at Carnegie Mellon University dates back to the mid-1960s and what some say was the foundation of the world’s first AI research hub.
Despite the hotly disputed accolade, however, the Appalachian state has long lagged behind in actually hosting the infrastructure that makes modern AI possible, with a relatively small data center market compared to its neighbors.
PA also declares itself to be the birthplace of the US oil industry. And with ample power driven largely from natural gas, a large portfolio of brownfield industrial sites in need of repurposing, and a business-friendly government, Pennsylvania is quickly luring a wave of new data center development.
Rust Belt no more
