The White House has announced a major initiative to expand artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in the United States. This executive order sets a plan to build large-scale AI data centers on federal land managed by the Departments of Defense and Energy.
These centers will be powered by clean energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal to meet the growing energy demands of advanced AI systems, which are expected to skyrocket in the coming years.
The order also focuses on national security and economic growth by requiring companies to use U.S.-made semiconductors and adopt rigorous cybersecurity measures. To accelerate the rollout, federal agencies will streamline permits, improve grid access, and ensure the AI infrastructure development benefits workers and nearby communities.
Why It Matters: AI is quickly becoming a cornerstone of innovation and economic power. By investing in secure, sustainable AI infrastructure, the U.S. aims to remain competitive globally while protecting its technological and national security interests.
- New AI Data Centers on Federal Land: The Departments of Defense and Energy will identify at least six federal sites by early 2025 to host state-of-the-art AI data centers. These locations will prioritize community benefits, such as local job creation, and avoid environmental risks.
- Clean Energy-Powered AI: All AI infrastructure must use new clean energy sources like solar, geothermal, or nuclear power. This ensures that the energy demands of AI systems do not burden existing power users or harm the environment.
- Securing Supply Chains and Technology: Companies developing AI on federal land must purchase U.S.-made semiconductors, supporting domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Cybersecurity and physical protections are required for all facilities to protect sensitive data and AI systems.
- Faster Permitting and Infrastructure Buildout: Federal agencies will fast-track permits and approvals for AI projects to ensure construction begins by 2026 and operations by 2027. The Department of Energy will lead efforts to connect these sites to high-capacity power grids and improve transmission infrastructure.
- Community and Labor Benefits: Developers must pay prevailing wages, hire apprentices, and ensure safe working conditions during construction and operation. Local communities are expected to benefit from job opportunities and investments in sustainable infrastructure.
Biden to issue executive order to ensure power for AI data centers – Reuters