OpenAI, Oracle, and Vantage Data Centers have announced a $15 billion plan to build a significant data center campus in Port Washington, Wisconsin. The new campus, part of the Stargate initiative to expand AI infrastructure, is projected to provide close to a gigawatt of operational AI capacity across four data centers by 2028, according to a joint press release on October 22.
The developers estimate the project will generate more than 4,000 skilled construction jobs, with operations eventually supporting over 1,000 permanent roles. Citing company data, the regional economic impact could reach $2.7 billion, and at least $175 million is earmarked for upgrades to water infrastructure and power systems in the area.
Location strategy
Why Wisconsin? As AI models become more integral to business and consumer life, demand for computing power is accelerating. For OpenAI and Oracle, selecting a Midwest site likely brings advantages such as lower energy costs, ample land, and a receptive local government. Yet the question remains whether regional incentives or broader tech expansion strategies shape these investment decisions.
Sustainability is a stated priority for the project. Vantage Data Centers claims the campus will be powered primarily by new zero-emission energy sources, with 70% dedicated to the facility and 30% shared with Wisconsin consumers. The plan is to match additional energy needs through renewable energy purchases. Water use is another consideration: developers say a closed-loop liquid-cooling system and freshwater restoration projects will result in “water positivity,” returning more water to local resources than the center consumes.
Positive outcomes from positive planning?
Such sustainability commitments, however, can only be evaluated as construction progresses. Critics may wonder whether matching energy through purchases, rather than direct production, truly offsets emissions. Similarly, “biodiversity net gain” and “LEED certification” are ambitious goals, but independent oversight will be needed to verify outcomes.
Local officials, including Port Washington Mayor Ted Neitzke IV, have cited the potential for long-term regional benefits and thousands of new jobs. WEC Energy Group reports that a dedicated utility rate, underwritten by the developers, should shield existing customers from higher power prices.
The announcement comes as part of a broader trend: hyperscale data center projects now crop up far from traditional tech hubs, reflecting changing demands in a world increasingly shaped by AI. For residents and industry watchers alike, the real test will be whether the project’s promises on jobs, sustainability, and local value translate into tangible, verified benefits over time.
Photo credit: The feature image and the photos in the body have been distributed for media usage by Vantage Data Centers as part of their press releases.
Source: Vantage Data Centers press release
