The vast, open plains of North Dakota might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the bustling world of artificial intelligence. But think again. A digital gold rush is underway, and the state is rapidly becoming a critical hub for the infrastructure that powers our AI-driven future. The latest headline-grabber? A colossal new 'AI Factory' is set to rise near Harwood, thanks to a major investment from Applied Digital Corporation.
A New Frontier for AI Infrastructure
Applied Digital Corporation, a key player in building data centers, has officially announced plans for 'Polaris Forge 2'. This isn't just another data center; it's a state-of-the-art, 280-megawatt facility designed specifically to handle the immense computational demands of modern AI. Groundbreaking is slated for September, marking a significant expansion of the company's footprint in the state, building on the success of their existing 'Polaris Forge 1' facility in Ellendale.
Wes Cummins, CEO of Applied Digital, captured the excitement, stating, “We believe Polaris Forge 2 represents the next stage in Applied Digital’s rapid growth and our position as a leader in delivering high-performance AI infrastructure. The demand for AI capacity continues to accelerate, and North Dakota continues to be one of the most strategic locations in the country to meet that need.”
Why North Dakota is the Perfect Fit
You might be wondering, why North Dakota? The answer lies in a perfect trifecta of resources that are essential for large-scale data operations:
- Land: AI data centers are massive, and North Dakota has ample space to accommodate sprawling campuses like the planned 900-acre site for Polaris Forge 2.
- Energy: These facilities are incredibly power-hungry. The state offers reliable and accessible energy, with the new facility set to be powered by the Cass County Electric Cooperative.
- Climate: The naturally cool climate is a huge advantage. It helps reduce the enormous costs associated with cooling the thousands of high-performance processors that generate immense heat, making operations more energy-efficient and sustainable.
This combination makes the state a strategic goldmine for AI developers looking to build the backbone of tomorrow's technology.
What This Means for Harwood and Beyond
The project's timeline is ambitious, with initial capacity expected to come online in 2026 and the entire facility reaching full power in early 2027. The economic impact on the region is set to be substantial. The Harwood site is projected to create over 200 full-time, high-tech jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy, not to mention the numerous contractor roles during the construction phase.
This development isn't just a local story; it reinforces North Dakota's growing reputation as one of the most important destinations for AI infrastructure in the United States. As the demand for AI continues to skyrocket, expect to see more pioneering projects like this taking root in America's heartland.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: Applied Digital is building a new 280-megawatt 'AI Factory' in Harwood, North Dakota.
- Strategic Location: North Dakota's unique combination of abundant land, reliable energy, and a cool climate makes it an ideal location for AI data centers.
- Economic Growth: The project will span over 900 acres and is expected to create more than 200 full-time jobs.
- Project Timeline: The facility is expected to begin operations in 2026 and be fully functional by early 2027.
- National Significance: This move solidifies North Dakota's position as a critical hub for the nation's growing AI infrastructure needs.