The U.S. Department of Energy has identified 16 potential sites positioned for rapid data center construction. (Source: Shutterstock)
As the U.S. pushes for AI dominance, the Department of Energy (DOE) has identified 16 potential sites positioned for rapid data center construction, according to an April 3 press release.
The sites include in-place energy infrastructure to fast track permitting for new energy generation such as nuclear, with a target to commence operations by the end of 2027, the DOE said.
The department said it plans to help lower energy costs by co-locating data centers and new energy infrastructure on DOE lands and prioritizing public-private partnerships to advance digital innovation.
“The global race for AI dominance is the next Manhattan project, and with President Trump’s leadership and the innovation of our National Labs, the United States can and will win,” Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said. “With today’s action, the Department of Energy is taking important steps to leverage our domestic resources to power the AI revolution, while continuing to deliver affordable, reliable and secure energy to the American people.”
The DOE released a request for information (RFI) to gather details on potential development approaches, technology solutions, operational models and economic considerations associated with establishing AI infrastructure at select DOE sites.
The department said it is seeking input from data center developers, energy developers and the broader public to further advance construction.
The potential sites reinforce President Trump’s Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence and Unleashing American Energy Executive Orders signed in January.
“President Trump is committed to ensuring American leadership in artificial intelligence and Secretary Wright is delivering,” said White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios. “The Trump Administration will unleash Federal resources to build out the data resources needed for an AI-powered future.”
Publicly available information about each site, including location, available acreage and other characteristics is provided in appendices to the RFI.
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