The Trump AI data center project gained momentum on Thursday as the administration revealed 16 potential sites on U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) lands for developing next-generation data centers and power plants. These projects aim to support the surging energy demand created by artificial intelligence technologies.
This announcement reflects a strategic shift in U.S. energy and tech planning. For the first time in two decades, AI-driven innovation is fueling a significant rise in national power demand. As a result, Big Tech firms and utility providers are racing to build scalable infrastructure to support this digital transformation.
The DOE noted that the selected sites are already equipped with energy infrastructure. This gives them a competitive edge by allowing fast-track permitting for new power projects—including the potential use of nuclear reactors. However, it remains unclear how this would align with regulations from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, an independent body overseeing nuclear safety.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright highlighted the urgency of the initiative. “The global race for AI dominance is the next Manhattan Project,” he said. “With President Trump’s leadership and the innovation of our National Labs, the United States can and will win.”
The Department of Energy, which manages large tracts of federal land, has pinpointed facilities such as Idaho National Laboratory and uranium sites in Paducah, Kentucky, and Portsmouth, Ohio. Historically, these locations supported Cold War-era nuclear programs. Now, they could host the nation’s future AI backbone.
In addition to these new developments, the DOE under President Biden had earlier identified similar sites across five states. These included Washington, Nevada, and South Carolina, earmarked for clean energy projects like solar, wind, and nuclear power. Much of the land required environmental cleanup after years of contamination from past nuclear activity.
Looking ahead, the DOE is inviting feedback from private-sector developers, energy providers, and the public. By encouraging public-private partnerships, it hopes to fast-track construction and bring AI-powered infrastructure online by late 2027.
Ultimately, the Trump AI data center project underscores a growing belief that energy security and tech innovation must go hand in hand. As AI evolves, the U.S. is taking bold steps to stay ahead in the global race for digital and industrial supremacy.
