OpenAI and Oracle Announce Michigan Data Center Expansion

OpenAI (OPENAI) and Oracle (ORCL) revealed plans to expand the Stargate artificial intelligence project by developing a large-scale data center campus in Michigan. The announcement was made late Thursday, signaling a major step in scaling AI infrastructure across the United States.

Sustainable Infrastructure and Design

The Stargate Michigan campus, being developed by Related Digital, will break ground early next year. The facility will feature a closed-loop cooling system that significantly reduces water usage, making it one of the more environmentally conscious AI data centers in the country.

Energy provider DTE Energy (DTE) will supply power to the site using existing excess transmission capacity, supporting the campus without requiring new grid infrastructure.

Reindustrialization and Economic Impact

OpenAI emphasized the project’s broader goal of “reindustrializing the country” by leveraging AI-driven infrastructure to boost local economies.

“AI will unlock major benefits—from better healthcare to improved public services—and the buildout required to get there will generate significant opportunities along the way,” OpenAI stated.

The initiative aims to create jobs, support regional manufacturing, and strengthen U.S. technological competitiveness.

Part of a National AI Infrastructure Network

The Michigan site marks the seventh Stargate project announced in the United States, joining other large-scale developments in Texas and multiple undisclosed states.

When fully combined, the Stargate network will exceed 8 gigawatts of planned capacity and involve more than $450 billion in total investment over the next three years, according to OpenAI.

Key Takeaways

New Stargate data center launching in Michigan in partnership with Oracle.
Developed by Related Digital with sustainable, low-water cooling design.
DTE Energy to provide power via existing infrastructure.
$450 billion investment and 8 GW total capacity planned nationwide.
Aims to reindustrialize U.S. regions and create thousands of jobs.