U.S. Department of Energy to Develop AI Data Centers in Oak Ridge
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced plans to develop artificial intelligence data centers and energy generation projects on federally owned land in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Oak Ridge Reservation is among four federal sites selected to host private sector developments focused on AI infrastructure and energy solutions.
Details on the Oak Ridge Site
In April, the DOE issued a Request for Information identifying 16 potential sites, highlighting Oak Ridge’s federal lands as highly suitable to meet the President’s AI Infrastructure goals within two to three years. The site includes a 562-acre plot, with about 100 acres ready for near-term development.
The DOE aims to select private partners by the end of the year. More detailed information about the scope of projects at each location will be shared in the coming months. The Oak Ridge Reservation covers approximately 37,000 acres across Anderson and Roane counties and includes three key government-owned, contractor-operated facilities:
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory
- Y-12 National Security Complex
- East Tennessee Technological Park
Other Selected Sites and Future Plans
Alongside Oak Ridge, the DOE also chose the Idaho National Laboratory, Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Kentucky, and Savannah River Site in South Carolina for development. Additional sites are currently under review for future projects.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “By leveraging DOE land assets for the deployment of AI and energy infrastructure, we are taking a bold step to accelerate the next Manhattan Project—ensuring U.S. AI and energy leadership.” He added that these sites will support data center operations, power generation, grid reliability, national security, and energy cost reduction.
This initiative presents an opportunity for IT professionals and developers interested in AI infrastructure and energy technologies to watch closely. For those looking to build skills in AI and related fields, exploring up-to-date AI training courses can provide practical knowledge aligned with upcoming industry demands.
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