In brief
On March 20, 2026, Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced a landmark initiative to transform the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant into a cutting-edge data center and power generation site. This ambitious project entails a 10-gigawatt data center, alongside significant infrastructure upgrades estimated at $4.2 billion, which are intended to support the burgeoning artificial intelligence sector. The proposal is part of a broader U.S.-Japan Strategic Trade and Investment Agreement, with substantial financial backing from Japanese investors. However, local opposition is mounting due to concerns about environmental and societal ramifications, signaling an ongoing debate about the balance between technological progress and community impact.
PIKETON, Ohio (AP) — The U.S. Department of Energy on Friday announced a pivotal public-private partnership aimed at developing a comprehensive data center on the decommissioned uranium enrichment site in southern Ohio, which is now being rebranded as the 'PORTS Technology Campus'. This ambitious project includes plans for a 10-gigawatt data center and up to 10 gigawatts of new power generation, largely consisting of natural gas, according to DOE officials.
During the recent announcement, Energy Secretary Chris Wright elaborated on the job creation potential of the project while Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick shared insights on its role in reindustrializing the nation through large-scale energy projects. The initiative was framed as critical to the U.S. effort in the competitive landscape of artificial intelligence technology.
However, the launch of this project comes amid rising opposition from local communities. Earlier this month, a petition was filed by rural Ohio residents to place a constitutional ban on mega data centers on the statewide ballot. This reflects a growing sentiment concerned about the environmental and social costs associated with such extensive technological developments.
The Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant was notably included in a roster of federal sites where technology companies could expand their data management capabilities as unveiled by the Department of Energy last year. The investment aims to create a new economic landscape and provide substantial power generation capacity, aiding local communities.
Officials noted that construction is set to kick-off this year, with expectations to generate thousands of jobs. Excess power produced will also be funneled back to the grid, which could potentially lower electricity costs in the surrounding regions.
