Kentucky Site to Host $100 Billion AI Data Center Campus

The Paducah project, scheduled for completion in 2032, leverages the existing transmission and utility infrastructure of the former atomic energy site. To support the facility's power demands, developers plan to construct 4.6 gigawatts of dedicated generation resources. This setup allows the campus to operate independently of the local grid's existing supply, fulfilling a commitment to protect residential and small-business customers from rate hikes associated with the expansion.

Brookfield, which was selected to lease and operate the campus, intends to use the site as the cornerstone of a broader $100 billion AI infrastructure strategy. NextEra Energy will manage the construction of the power generation assets, including 2 gigawatts of natural gas capacity and 2.6 gigawatts of battery storage. The development is projected to generate 8,000 construction jobs and 600 permanent operational roles, marking a significant economic pivot for the region.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright described the initiative as a roadmap for future infrastructure development, emphasizing that the project demonstrates how private capital can scale advanced computing hubs without placing financial burdens on surrounding communities. Local utility providers, including Big Rivers Electric Power Corporation and the Paducah Power System, have signed on to ensure the integration of these new resources strengthens regional grid reliability.