Four DOE sites selected for potential AI infrastructure and energy development projects.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced plans to partner with private companies to build AI data centers and energy facilities at four federally owned sites: Idaho National Laboratory, Oak Ridge Reservation, Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant, and Savannah River Site. These efforts support recent federal directives aiming to expand U.S. AI and energy infrastructure by streamlining development on government land. The initiative aligns with executive orders focused on accelerating federal permitting, advancing nuclear technologies, and enhancing national energy capacity.
“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,” said Energy Secretary Chris Wright. “These sites are uniquely positioned to host data centers as well as power generation to bolster grid reliability, strengthen our national security, and reduce energy costs.” The
Department noted strong private sector interest in response to an April request for information and plans to release project-specific guidelines in the coming months. Consultations with states, tribes, and local governments will be part of the planning process, with partner selections potentially finalized by year’s end. Additional DOE sites are still under review for similar future use.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For thoughtful stewardship of public lands.
- For Secretary Wright and DOE leadership to be deliberate and transparent in decisions involving long-term national infrastructure.
- For equitable collaboration among stakeholders, including private sector partners, state and tribal governments, and local communities, so that the benefits and burdens of these projects are fairly shared.
Sources: Department of Energy
