Fit Energy to Build Fuel Cell Power and Data Center Project on Former Mining Land in Pennsylvania

Fit Energy, a developer of reliable energy solutions for data center projects, has announced plans to build a fuel cell power generation and data center project in Newport Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, after the township granted zoning approval for both uses in August 2026. Engineering work and remaining permitting activities are now underway ahead of construction.

The project will be developed on land that has already been mined and quarried, returning previously used industrial property to productive use rather than developing untouched forests or farmland. On-site power will be generated by natural gas fuel cells supplied by FuelCell Energy, Inc., a Connecticut-based manufacturer of utility-scale fuel cell technology, under its strategic agreement with Fit Energy. The fuel cells produce electricity quietly through an electrochemical process rather than combustion, helping deliver cleaner energy with minimal impact on the surrounding community while reducing the project's reliance on the regional power grid.

The site plan incorporates setbacks, landscaping, and screening designed to limit views of the facility from nearby homes and local roads, reflecting an effort to balance energy infrastructure needs with community character. The project also includes investment in power, natural gas, water, and sewer infrastructure that will serve the site and add to local utility capacity and stability for the future.

Construction is expected to create significant employment and business opportunities for contractors, skilled trades, and suppliers over a multi-year buildout. Once operational, the project is expected to support permanent skilled positions in operations, maintenance, security, facility management, and technology. It is also expected to generate new tax revenue for Newport Township, the local school district, and Luzerne County.

Fit Energy is working with Newport Township on a Community Benefits Agreement that would establish a formal framework for directing additional investment toward priorities identified by the community. Joe Hillan, Newport Township Manager, said the commissioners have been proactive in promoting development in appropriately zoned sections of the township that respects community input and creates new jobs and local tax revenue. "We recognize Fit Energy has made significant commitment to this development, and we welcome the company's investment in our community and appreciate Fit Energy's willingness to work with the Township to address any and all community concerns," he said.

Fit Energy intends to be an active member of the Newport Township community, working closely with township officials and residents through permitting, construction, and operations. As part of that commitment, the company will host a public information session where residents can review the plans, ask questions, and hear directly from the project team. The date, time, and location will be announced at www.newportdatacenter.com, where residents can also submit questions, read answers to frequently asked questions, and follow project updates. Joel Leonoff, Chief Executive Officer of Fit Energy, said a project like this is most successful when the community has the opportunity to hear directly from the people building it. "We're committed to being transparent, answering questions and building a long-term relationship with Newport Township as we move through the next stages of this project," he said.