OpenAI to lease massive new AI data center in U.S., backed by Nvidia
ChatGPT-maker OpenAI plans to lease a massive 8-gigawatt AI data center in Ohio for 20 years, backed by a $105 billion financing commitment from Nvidia. The project, located at a former uranium enrichment plant, also involves SoftBank and its subsidiary SB Energy, who will invest in 10 GW of new energy generation. The announcement comes amid growing public opposition to data centers' high electricity consumption.
OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has announced plans to lease a massive new artificial intelligence data center in Ohio for a 20-year term. This ambitious project, to be built on the site of a former Cold War-era uranium enrichment plant, is expected to eventually reach an 8-gigawatt capacity, making it the largest single AI data center globally. The facility will exclusively utilize Nvidia chips.
Nvidia is providing a significant financial backing of $105 billion, while SoftBank and its subsidiary SB Energy, the data center's owner, will invest over $4 billion into local energy infrastructure. This includes a commitment to build at least 10 GW of new energy generation to power the facility. OpenAI has also pledged $40 million to support local priorities. Nvidia is further investing $1.5 billion into SB Energy, addressing concerns about "circular financing" by clarifying that OpenAI will cover the lease with the same discipline applied to supply-chain management.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated that the site will provide immense computing power for millions of AI users. The company anticipates the creation of 35,000 temporary construction jobs over six years and 2,500 long-term operating positions. These job and energy investment promises are a direct response to increasing public hostility towards data centers, which are criticized for their substantial electricity and water demands. A recent Gallup poll indicated that over 70 percent of Americans oppose such developments near their homes, with rising electricity bills partly attributed to these facilities fueling debate in midterm elections. OpenAI and SB Energy maintain they will cover all energy and infrastructure costs without burdening local residents.