OpenAI 'Blueprint' Calls on US to 'Act Big' on AI | PYMNTS.com
Jan 14, 2025 - pymnts.com
OpenAI has released an "economic blueprint" advocating for the U.S. to lead in artificial intelligence (AI) by fostering innovation and protecting national security. Chris Lehane, OpenAI’s vice president of global affairs, emphasized the need for the U.S. to adopt a proactive approach similar to how it embraced the automobile industry, merging private innovation with public support. The blueprint suggests creating specialized economic zones to expedite AI facility permits in exchange for providing computing power to public universities and highlights the importance of expanding energy capacity, particularly in the Midwest and Southwest. OpenAI estimates the American AI industry will require about 50 gigawatts of power by 2030 and proposes leveraging U.S. Navy nuclear expertise and modernizing power infrastructure through a "National Transmission Highway Act."
Additionally, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman sees an opportunity for incoming President Trump to enhance the CHIPS Act, aimed at revitalizing the U.S. semiconductor industry. Altman criticized the bureaucratic hurdles in building infrastructure like power plants and data centers, stressing that these challenges hinder the U.S.'s ability to lead in AI. He advocates for reducing these barriers to support the country's leadership in AI development.
Key takeaways:
OpenAI has released an "economic blueprint" advocating for the U.S. to lead in AI innovation and protect national security.
The blueprint suggests creating specialized economic zones to fast-track AI facility permits and expand energy capacity, especially in the Midwest and Southwest.
OpenAI proposes leveraging U.S. Navy nuclear expertise for civilian reactors and modernizing power infrastructure through a "National Transmission Highway Act."
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman highlights the need to improve U.S. infrastructure and reduce bureaucracy to maintain leadership in AI development.
