Georgia and Pennsylvania have quickly become key players in the United States data center market. With a combined IT capacity of over 27.5 GW, these two states are experiencing rapid growth and are attracting hyperscalers and colocation providers due to their strong power supply, ample land resources, and supportive policies.
Georgia and Pennsylvania are emerging as major contenders in the US data center market, boasting a combined IT capacity exceeding 27.5 GW. Their strategic assets in power supply, land resource, and supportive policies have attracted hyperscalers and colocation providers, leading to unprecedented growth in recent years.
Georgia’s Rapid Expansion
Georgia has seen a remarkable increase in IT load from 1.7 GW in 2021 to a projected 19.7 GW in 2025. This growth is driven by large-scale projects and a growing demand for digital infrastructure, with early-stage colocation capacity at 6.7 GW and hyperscale developments adding another 5.3 GW.
Pennsylvania’s Surging Growth
Pennsylvania has also experienced significant growth, surging from 0.2 GW in 2021 to 7.8 GW today. This growth can be attributed to commitments from major cloud operators in the wholesale colocation space.
Georgia’s Market Expansion
In Georgia, the core market of Atlanta is expanding outward, with South Atlanta leading at a projected 9.1 GW, followed by West Atlanta (2.7 GW), Northwest Atlanta (2.6 GW), and East Atlanta (1.9 GW). This spread is due to rising land costs and transmission constraints near the city.
Pennsylvania’s Data Center Clusters
Pennsylvania’s data center activities are concentrated in two clusters: Pittsburgh, with an IT load of 2.6 GW, and Philadelphia, with 0.5 GW. Pittsburgh benefits from access to natural gas and proximity to major markets, while Philadelphia leverages dense fiber networks and industry connections.
Georgia’s Energy Mix
Georgia’s rapid growth is powered by nuclear energy, anchored by the Vogtle plant’s 4.5 GW capacity, with plans to add another 10 GW by Georgia Power. However, challenges such as zoning laws, regulatory approvals, and local moratoriums accompany this expansion.
Pennsylvania’s Strategic Policies
Pennsylvania has implemented policies like the Computer Data Center Equipment Incentive Program and the Artificial Intelligence and Data Center Act to attract data center investments. Streamlined permitting processes and the reuse of industrial sites, along with long-term nuclear power purchase agreements, ensure a steady, zero-emissions power supply near key plants.
