Developers of the first Stargate AI data center in Abilene, Texas, have submitted an application to build a natural gas plant alongside the data center. Public filings indicate that the plant will have a capacity of 360.5MW and is expected to cost up to $500 million.
Key Details of the Project
Power Plant Specifications
According to the filings with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the proposed power plant will feature ten simple-cycle natural gas turbines permitted under Title V of the Clean Air Act. The turbines are designed to provide “primary and backup power” exclusively for the data center. Additionally, a permit for diesel generators at the site has already been accepted.
The power plant will be directly connected to the data center and operate as an onsite energy source. Half of the turbines will be supplied by GE Vernova, while the other half will come from Solar Turbines, a Caterpillar Inc. subsidiary.
Estimated Investment and Development Costs
The plant’s construction is expected to cost $500 million, aligning with the Stargate project’s broader commitment to investing in cutting-edge AI infrastructure. This substantial investment underscores the growing demand for scalable and reliable energy solutions in the data center industry.
The Stargate Project: A Collaborative Venture
The Stargate project, unveiled last week, is a joint venture involving OpenAI, Oracle, SoftBank, and investment firm MGX. The partners have pledged to invest up to $500 billion into artificial intelligence infrastructure over the next four years, with $100 billion set for immediate deployment. Although precise details remain unclear, the project signifies a transformative push toward advanced AI ecosystems.
Renewable Energy Components
In addition to the natural gas plant, the Stargate campus will incorporate renewable energy sources. Reports suggest that solar and battery solutions, provided by SoftBank subsidiary SB Energy, will contribute to the site’s energy mix. This hybrid energy approach highlights a trend toward combining traditional and renewable power sources to meet the increasing energy demands of data centers.
Why Texas Is a Hub for Off-Grid Energy Solutions
Off-grid natural gas plants are becoming a popular choice for data center developers due to their scalability and reliability. Texas, with its favorable regulatory environment and abundant natural gas supply, has become a hotspot for such projects. Recently, New Era Helium and Sharon AI finalized a joint venture to develop a 250MW off-grid natural gas-powered data center in West Texas’ Permian Basin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the proposed natural gas plant for the Stargate data center?
The proposed natural gas plant will have a capacity of 360.5MW.
Who are the key partners involved in the Stargate project?
The Stargate project is a joint venture between OpenAI, Oracle, SoftBank, and investment firm MGX.
What energy solutions will be used for the Stargate campus?
The campus will utilize a combination of natural gas turbines, diesel generators, and renewable energy sources like solar and batteries.
Why is Texas a popular location for data center developments?
Texas offers a favorable regulatory environment, abundant natural gas supply, and a robust infrastructure for off-grid energy solutions.
Who will supply the turbines for the natural gas plant?
GE Vernova and Solar Turbines, a subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc., will supply the turbines.
