OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT, has announced plans to partner with Oracle, a leading computer technology company, to power its upcoming data center expansion. The initiative aims to rent an impressive 4.5 gigawatts of data center power, sufficient to supply around 750,000 homes, as reported recently.
As part of this collaboration, Oracle intends to construct additional data centers to satisfy OpenAI’s growing demands. Potential sites for these facilities include states like Wyoming, Michigan, Texas, Wisconsin, Georgia, New Mexico, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. However, the companies have not specified exact locations.
In Wyoming, particularly in Cheyenne, the development of another data center presents substantial opportunities. Cheyenne already houses ten of the state’s thirteen data centers, and the existing infrastructure makes it an appealing choice for data center developers. The city benefits from its proximity to major transport routes and a strong fiber connections, as well as favorable energy rates from Black Hills Energy, which supports the region’s energy needs.
State Representative Daniel Singh emphasized the importance of careful consideration regarding the potential impacts of data centers on local communities. He noted that while water concerns may be mitigated—such as through the purification of imported ocean water for cooling—it’s vital to address community sentiments about such developments.
Additionally, there are encouraging implications for Wyoming’s traditional industries. Singh pointed out that the demand for electricity from data centers could serve as a boon for coal, oil, and natural gas sectors, highlighting a potential economic uplift for the region.
Cheyenne LEADS board member David Pope expressed optimism about the future, seeing the deal as a chance for the region to become a central hub for advanced AI and data infrastructure. He emphasized that Wyoming has an attractive business climate, including a favorable tax structure and abundant land, which could enhance its appeal for such investments.
This development not only signifies a local economic opportunity but also contributes to the United States’ efforts to maintain a competitive edge in technology and innovation, positioning Wyoming as a key player in the evolving landscape of AI and data centers.