As demand for AI, cloud computing, and digital storage accelerates, Pennsylvania is emerging as a strategic hub for data center development. This growth presents significant opportunities for developers, energy providers, investors, and host communities – while also introducing complex regulatory, infrastructure, and energy challenges for the region. Justine Kasznica, Gina Buchman, Anna Jewart, and Dave White discuss the legal and regulatory forces shaping data center projects across the region and offer guidance on advancing projects efficiently while balancing economic opportunity with responsible community engagement. To view the full article and video, click here.
Attorney 
Anna Skipper Jewart will serve as a panelist for “Navigating Community Impact in Data Center Development” during the Energy & Mineral Law Foundation’s (EMLF) 47th Annual Institute on Monday, June 15, 2026. This fireside discussion lets you join a data center developer and its land use counsel to explore how successful data center projects are planned with community impact front and center. The conversation will focus on practical strategies for addressing local concerns around land use, infrastructure, environmental impacts, and long-term community compatibility. Panelists will share real-world perspectives on early engagement, navigating entitlements and approvals, and building trust with stakeholders to move complex projects forward responsibly and efficiently. For more information, click here.
View the video interview POWERING THE FUTURE: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges for Data Centers in the Region with Susan Koeppen and Babst Calland Attorneys Justine Kasznica and Anna Skipper Jewart, with accompanying article in this week’s edition of the Pittsburgh Business Times. Pennsylvania ranks among the top states for data center development growth. In 2025 alone, more than 90 billion dollars of new data center, energy, and AI infrastructure commitments were announced across Pennsylvania. Currently, Babst Calland is guiding the development of data center projects for nearly 4 gigawatts of power.
