IREN partners with NVIDIA to develop AI-ready architecture for West Texas data center
IREN has partnered with NVIDIA to develop AI-ready architecture for its Sweetwater data center campus in Fisher County, Texas. This major expansion, expected to continue through 2027, has already energized its first site and will create hundreds of construction and operational jobs, though some residents have raised concerns about traffic and power demands.
IREN, a digital infrastructure company, has announced a partnership with NVIDIA to develop AI-ready architecture for its Sweetwater data center campus in Fisher County, West Texas. This collaboration aims to accelerate market delivery, optimize compute power and cooling, and future-proof the facility for evolving computer models.
IREN's Chief Operating Officer, David Shaw, stated that the company recently energized its 1.4 gigawatt Sweetwater one site, connecting it to the ERCOT power grid. The project is projected to expand until 2027, with plans for additional data center buildings and a significant increase in the construction workforce, followed by over 200 permanent operational jobs. Shaw explained that Fisher County was selected due to its abundant renewable energy resources and existing electrical infrastructure, offering an overcapacity of power.
However, as large AI facilities proliferate in West Texas, some residents have voiced concerns regarding increased traffic, power demands, and the broader impact on rural communities. Shaw assured that IREN is committed to minimizing disruptions and investing in the community, aiming to foster local job opportunities and integrate as a long-term partner.