Brookfield and NextEra Energy are partnering to construct a massive $100bn data centre and energy complex on a former nuclear enrichment facility in Paducah, Kentucky. The site, which was integral to the US nuclear weapons program, ceased enrichment activities in 2013.

The project will include 2 gigawatts of natural gas power plants and 2.6 gigawatts of battery storage, generating enough electricity to power 1.5 million homes. The US Department of Energy will provide leases for the over 3,500-acre site. This initiative aligns with President Donald Trump’s ratepayer protection pledge, ensuring the project is privately funded and technology companies cover infrastructure costs.

Brookfield CEO Bruce Flatt stated the Paducah site will be the foundation for the company's $100bn investment in AI infrastructure. Some operations are expected to begin in 2028, with full completion by 2032. This development occurs amidst broader US efforts to advance AI capabilities and compete with China, while also facing community opposition to data centre construction elsewhere.

Next Era Energy CEO John Ketchum highlighted the project as a model for AI infrastructure development in America, promising new jobs, energy resources, and grid reliability without increased costs for existing customers. Brookfield, a major investor in AI and energy, manages $1tn in assets and has previously secured an $80bn deal with the US government for nuclear reactor construction.