Department of Energy Advances AI Infrastructure Development on Federal Lands

Department of Energy Advances AI Infrastructure Development on Federal Lands

According to an article by Edward Boling and Laura Smith Morton, partners at Perkins Coie, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued a Request for Information (RFI) on April 7, 2025, seeking input on potential artificial intelligence (AI) data center development across 16 federally owned or managed sites. 

This step to accelerate AI infrastructure in the United States aligns with the Trump administration’s AI and energy priorities outlined in recent executive orders and echoes prior efforts initiated under the Biden administration. The RFI marks a strategic attempt to identify viable locations and approaches for building out AI infrastructure, envisioning operational data centers with co-located energy technologies by the end of 2027.

The DOE seeks feedback from industry stakeholders on a range of technical, logistical, and regulatory factors related to siting AI data centers. This includes industry interest in specific sites, potential designs, power requirements, co-location with energy sources such as nuclear, geothermal, or carbon capture technologies, as well as associated economic and environmental considerations. 

While clean energy is not mandated, the RFI emphasizes flexible integration of advanced energy systems. Additionally, the department solicits input on potential barriers, such as environmental review processes, interconnection logistics, and the structuring of realty agreements under its statutory authorities.

For risk management professionals, the article highlights how this initiative presents both opportunities and challenges. The use of DOE lands could streamline permitting and reduce costs associated with land acquisition and taxation. However, project sponsors will need to navigate complex regulatory frameworks, environmental compliance, and federal land use agreements. 

As DOE aims to move quickly toward competitive solicitations and construction, the article suggests organizations considering participation should closely monitor regulatory developments and engage experienced legal counsel early. The compressed timelines and evolving federal priorities underscore the need for proactive risk assessment and strategic planning in what may become a cornerstone of national AI infrastructure.