OpenAI Commits $750 Billion to Infrastructure Amid Georgia Expansion

The project, situated northwest of Savannah, represents a significant shift for the company as its Stargate data center initiative faces delays. OpenAI has committed to covering all infrastructure and electric-service costs, sidestepping utility rate hikes under a rule adopted by the Georgia Public Service Commission. To mitigate grid strain, the company agreed to reduce its power draw by up to 1 gigawatt during peak demand periods, while securing a 15-year, 50% property tax abatement from Effingham County.

Energy procurement remains a critical hurdle, as neither OpenAI nor Georgia Power has detailed the specific power sources for the site. Regulatory filings suggest the load will rely heavily on natural gas, with Georgia Power planning to double its gas-fired capacity to meet regional demand. The utility expects to contract its new 9,885-megawatt capacity by 2026, with the OpenAI deal claiming nearly one-third of that total. Construction oversight falls to Brett Mayo, a recent hire from xAI, whose previous work on the Colossus facility in Memphis faced scrutiny over air quality and the use of unpermitted gas turbines.