Story perspectives

SoftBank Unveils $40 Billion AI Data Center in Ohio

3/22/2026

Summary

SoftBank's AI Investment

SoftBank Group Corp. advances plans for an AI-focused data center in Piketon, Ohio, costing $30–$40 billion.
The complex aims to generate up to 10 gigawatts, with 800 megawatts in phase one by early 2028.
The project will use $33 billion in natural gas infrastructure, with turbines producing 9.2 gigawatts.
The initiative ties to a $550 billion US-Japan trade deal and will create thousands of jobs; construction begins in mid-2026.

Summary

DOE's Data Center

The U.S. Department of Energy announced a public-private partnership to develop a 10-gigawatt data center and invest $4.2 billion in grid upgrades at Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon, Ohio.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the project would create jobs and boost AI competitiveness.
Construction is set to begin this year.
Some Ohio residents petition for a constitutional ban on mega data centers due to environmental and financial concerns.

History

Historical Context

The U.S.-Japan economic relationship has evolved significantly since the 1980s, when Japan became a major investor in the U.S., with cumulative investments reaching $500 billion by 2018. In 2019, the two nations signed a $550 billion trade agreement, enhancing cooperation in technology and energy sectors. SoftBank's $30–$40 billion AI data center project in Ohio exemplifies ongoing efforts to strengthen U.S. competitiveness in artificial intelligence.

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SoftBank's AI Investment

SoftBank Group Corp. advances plans for an AI-focused data center in Piketon, Ohio, costing $30–$40 billion.
The complex aims to generate up to 10 gigawatts, with 800 megawatts in phase one by early 2028.
The project will use $33 billion in natural gas infrastructure, with turbines producing 9.2 gigawatts.
The initiative ties to a $550 billion US-Japan trade deal and will create thousands of jobs; construction begins in mid-2026.

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