Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The U.S. Department of Energy announced the selection of four federal sites—Idaho National Laboratory, Oak Ridge Reservation, Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant, and Savannah River Site—to advance plans inviting private sector partnerships to develop AI data centers and energy generation projects on DOE lands.
This initiative aligns with previous Executive Orders to accelerate federal permitting for data center infrastructure, deploy advanced nuclear technologies for national security, and promote American energy development. Energy Secretary Chris Wright called the effort a step toward a "next Manhattan Project" to ensure U.S. leadership in AI and energy.
The selected sites are considered strong candidates for large-scale data centers, new power generation, and related infrastructure. DOE plans to work closely with data center developers, energy companies, states, local governments, and federally recognized tribes to move the initiative forward.
Further details on project scope, eligibility criteria, and submission guidelines for each site will be provided in site-specific solicitations expected in the coming months. Partner selections are anticipated by year end. DOE is also evaluating additional sites for similar projects in the future.