The article highlights the ambitious scale of the Stargate project, which aims to support advanced AI systems from OpenAI. Despite the initial promise of job creation, the long-term employment impact remains uncertain, as data centers generally need less staff once operational. The development is backed by significant financial support and involves several partners, including Crusoe Energy Systems and JPMorgan Chase & Co. The project reflects the growing demand for computing power in the tech industry, with plans to expand beyond Abilene to other locations.
Key takeaways:
- The first data center for the $100 billion Stargate venture by OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle is being developed in Abilene, Texas, covering about 875 acres.
- The project is expected to create at least 57 full-time jobs with an average wage of $57,600 annually, though the number could be higher.
- The data center project is part of a larger initiative expected to generate hundreds of thousands of jobs across the U.S., including construction and indirect employment.
- Abilene has provided significant tax breaks for the project, including an 85% discount on property taxes for two decades, with construction expected to be completed by August 2026.