Pennsylvania Digital Infrastructure Forum

Unlocking the Future of Digital Infrastructure in Pennsylvania

With nearly 100 data centers already in operation and approximately $75 billion in new investments recently announced, Pennsylvania is rapidly establishing itself as a powerhouse in digital infrastructure. This unprecedented growth is creating significant opportunities—not only in the financing, development, and construction of data centers, but also in delivering the vital energy resources needed to power them.

Please join Jones Day in Pittsburgh on Wednesday, November 12, for a dynamic, multi-panel event exploring the evolving landscape of data center development and the legal and business considerations shaping its future.

PROGRAM AGENDA
1:00 p.m.
Check-in begins

1:30 p.m.
Welcome & Introduction

• Becky Kcehowski, Partner-in-Charge, Pittsburgh, Jones Day

1:35 p.m.

Panel 1: Data Centers: The Current Environment and Future Outlook

At the heart of digital transformation, we will explore the key issues of concern that are facing data center development, with a viewpoint from leading data centers developers looking at opportunities, risks, and challenges, as well as hearing from Jones Day lawyers on how to overcome those risks, and look for solutions, through careful analysis on project development, including leasing, regulatory compliance, labor issues, and project structuring. This session will also equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to deal with the legal complexities of data center development, from initial planning through operational execution.

Moderator: Brian Sedlak, Real Estate and Energy Transition & Infrastructure Practice Leader, Jones Day

Panelists:

• David Blackford, Senior Managing Director of Infrastructure, Greystar
• Melissa Vandewater, Partner, Real Estate, Jones Day
• Adam Sharp, Development Director, AMER, Yondr
• Michael Green, General Counsel, Edged

2:30 p.m.

Panel 2: Special Considerations for Debt and Equity Financing

For energy producers, developers, and investment funds, financing data centers demands alignment across infrastructure, regulation, and capital strategy. Structuring financing with clear energy commitments and adaptive exit options is key to attracting institutional capital and mitigating risk. This panel will discuss how that alignment is achieved and the investment needed to capitalize on the opportunities at hand. Also, attendees will gain insights into how to capitalize on emerging opportunities in energy-integrated data center development while helping to manage regulatory risks.

Moderator: Andy Stanton, Partner, Financial Markets, Jones Day

Panelists:

• Justin DeAngelis, Partner, Global Head of Sustainable Infrastructure, Denham Capital
• Lachlan Farr, Vice President, Project Finance, MUFG
• Michael Riess, Partner, Financial Markets, Jones Day
• Liz Yaeger, Partner, Real Estate, Jones Day

3:30 p.m.

Panel 3: Pennsylvania's Energy and Resource Advantage: Powering the Future 

Pennsylvania's abundant natural gas reserves and strategic location position it as a national leader in powering next-generation industries. As demand surges from data centers, AI, and advanced manufacturing, the state's energy mix—combined with emerging carbon pricing and grid modernization efforts—offers a unique platform for sustainable growth. Hear from our panelists on the current state of the electrical grid in the region, how the new AI/data center environment is impacting the grid/service delivery, and how energy producers (old, new, alternative) can support effective power delivery in the region. Attendees will also gain practical insights into energy-related transactions, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning in Pennsylvania’s dynamic energy market.

Moderator: Kit Rockhill, Partner, Energy, Jones Day

Panelists:

• Sharon Midgley, Vice President, Regulatory Policy, Constellation
• Brent Bobsein, Vice President of Sustainable Development, CNX Resources
• Wayne Barnett, Head, Public Policy and External Affairs, Cordia
• Kristina Stone, Vice President, Chief Customer Officer, Duquesne Light
• Jeff Schlegel, Global Head of Energy, Jones Day

4:30 p.m. - Reception

CLE Information

CLE credit for this program is pending. Jones Day is an approved provider in CA, IL, NV, NY, PA, and TX and will apply to other jurisdictions as needed. In some jurisdictions, credit may be available via reciprocity or by self-application. If you have specific questions about credit in your jurisdiction, please contact the CLE & Lawyer Training team at jdcle@jonesday.com.