OpenAI is expanding its efforts across the United States to establish a network of large data centers that will support its artificial intelligence technologies. The company is looking beyond its main facility in Texas and is exploring 16 other states to move forward with the Stargate project, which has been supported by former President Donald Trump.
Recently, OpenAI put out a call for proposals, seeking land, electricity, and skilled workers, while beginning site visits in states such as Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. This project, known as Stargate, is a collaboration between OpenAI, Oracle, and Softbank. Trump highlighted this initiative shortly after resuming his role in the White House last month, mentioning that they are collectively investing $100 billion, with the potential to grow this investment to $500 billion, focusing on establishing substantial data centers and the necessary energy infrastructure for AI development. Trump characterized the project as a bold affirmation of the United States’ potential under his leadership, even as construction has been underway for months at the first site in Abilene, Texas.
Elon Musk, a Trump adviser and a prominent critic of OpenAI, has raised concerns about the financial viability of the Stargate initiative. His remarks come amidst ongoing legal disputes with OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman.
Following Trump’s announcement, several states have shown interest in attracting OpenAI’s data centers. Chris Lehane, OpenAI’s vice president of global affairs, shared that many states have reached out, eager to host these facilities. The proposals emphasize the importance of being close to essential infrastructure like power and water, as AI is known to consume substantial energy.
While the environmental impact of energy consumption from data centers is a topic of discussion, OpenAI’s plans do not define a clear focus on renewable energy sources such as wind or solar. However, it is noted that electricity providers should have strategies for managing their carbon emissions and water use. The Abilene project is situated in a region with access to diverse energy sources, including wind, solar, and natural gas.
Keith Heyde, who manages OpenAI’s infrastructure strategy, mentioned that they are considering sites where they can enhance energy sources, which may involve deploying new gas facilities or alternative methods. OpenAI is actively evaluating locations in other states, including Arizona, California, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. Heyde stated that the company is planning to build between five to ten campuses in total, depending on the scale of each facility.
