A landmark hyperscale AI and high-performance computing (HPC) development is moving forward in Eastern Kentucky with the acquisition of a key industrial site. Known as the Muskie Data Campus, the project is poised to deliver over 1 gigawatt (GW) of AI-focused digital infrastructure capacity.
TeraWulf Inc., a leader in digital infrastructure development, acquired the Muskie site from Industrial Equity Partners, enabling a phased construction timeline that will bring the project online by 2030.
Muskie Data Campus Positioned for Large-Scale AI and HPC Development
The Muskie Data Campus is situated within the 1,000-acre EastPark Industrial Park, with approximately 285 acres of owned land earmarked for initial development. Adjacent acreage is also available, allowing for long-term expansion as AI infrastructure demand continues to grow.
TeraWulf’s acquisition marks a pivotal step toward transforming the site into a major AI and HPC hub. Local economic leaders have already recognized the project as one of the most significant industrial development opportunities in northeastern Kentucky in recent decades.
The Muskie Data Campus development comes as new energy infrastructure, including the Frontier Solar PV Project in Kentucky, moves forward to strengthen regional grid capacity amid rising power demand.
Phased Buildout Targeted Through 2030
The Muskie Data Campus will be built in two main phases. The first phase will deliver 500 megawatts (MW) of power capacity, with construction expected to begin ramping up in the second half of 2028. The second phase will add another 500 MW by the second half of 2030, resulting in a total of over 1GW of AI-focused computing capacity.
This phased approach mirrors the complexity of hyperscale construction, where power infrastructure, transmission coordination, and phased deployment determine overall progress.
Transmission Infrastructure Powers Project Design
Power access is a cornerstone of the Muskie Data Campus design. Kentucky Power, an American Electric Power (AEP) company, is constructing a 345kV substation linked to an existing 765kV transmission network. This infrastructure will provide the large-scale, redundant power needed for hyperscale operations.
The acquisition included completed transmission agreements and energy service arrangements, providing a defined route for large-scale power delivery.
As AI workloads scale, power availability becomes a key limiting factor, and this campus targets that growing demand.
Zoning, Permitting, and Site Readiness
The project site already carries industrial zoning, and permitting activities continue on an active basis. Project details indicate that developers expect to carry out only limited initial site preparation before construction begins. Which reduces several early-stage development steps typically associated with large-scale data center projects.
This level of readiness places the Muskie Data Campus in a relatively advanced position compared to many proposed hyperscale developments, where zoning approvals and utility coordination can extend timelines significantly.
Muskie Data Campus Fact Sheet
Project: Muskie Data Campus
Location: EastPark Industrial Park, Eastern Kentucky
Planned Capacity: Over 1 gigawatt (GW) of AI and high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure
Phased Development:
Phase 1: 500 MW targeted for second half of 2028
Phase 2: 500 MW planned for second half of 2030
Site Size: 285 acres of owned land, with adjacent acreage available for future expansion
Power Infrastructure: Kentucky Power (AEP) constructing a 345 kV substation tied to 765 kV transmission
Acquisition: Site acquired by TeraWulf Inc. from Industrial Equity Partners
Zoning & Permitting: Already zoned for industrial use; permitting process underway
Economic Impact: Expected to generate significant construction jobs, long-term skilled employment, and workforce training partnerships
Regional Significance: Recognized as one of the top industrial development opportunities in northeastern Kentucky
Developer: TeraWulf Inc., focused on AI and HPC digital infrastructure projects
Leave a Reply