AI Electricity Usage in Wyoming: A New Era of Energy Consumption
In an ambitious move, Cheyenne, Wyoming, is set to become home to a new AI data center that could revolutionize energy consumption patterns in the state. The data center, a collaboration between Tallgrass and Crusoe, is poised to use more electricity than all the human residents in Wyoming combined.
The projected facility will initially operate at 1.8 gigawatts, consuming about 15.8 terawatt-hours annually—an amount significantly surpassing the electricity use of all households in Wyoming. At full capacity, it could reach 10 gigawatts, consuming 87.6 terawatt-hours of electricity each year. To put this into perspective, this is double the current energy generation of the entire state.
Given the infeasibility of drawing this power from the public grid, the center will rely on its proprietary gas generation and renewable energy sources, as noted by officials. This shift signals a monumental transformation for Wyoming, which currently exports about 60% of its generated power to other states.
The site is strategically located south of Cheyenne near the Colorado border. Despite regulatory approvals pending, Mayor Patrick Collins remains optimistic about a swift commencement.
The arrival of this data center introduces a new chapter in Wyoming's relationship with data and energy, positioning the state as a potential focal point for AI infrastructure. The project's alignment with Wyoming's robust natural gas industry also promises economic benefits, according to Governor Mark Gordon.
While the companies involved have not disclosed potential users of this computing power, there is rife speculation about connections to larger AI projects, such as OpenAI's Stargate initiative.
As data centers continue to proliferate, driven by AI advancements, Wyoming joins a growing narrative of technology and energy intersecting in unprecedented ways. Cheyenne's cool climate and abundant energy have already attracted giants like Microsoft and Meta, but this new development elevates Wyoming's status in the data infrastructure realm.
