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In the high-stakes race for AI dominance, "Speed to Market" has transitioned from a boardroom buzzword to a survival requirement. For data center developers, the traditional 36-month construction cycle is no longer fast enough to capture the demand of the burgeoning AI sector. This is where the Powered Shell becomes the developer’s most strategic asset. By providing the structural foundation and critical power hookups without the restrictive "one-size-fits-all" interior of a turnkey build, developers can offer the agility that hyperscalers and AI firms crave. These unique facilities strike a balance between a foundational infrastructure and tenant-specific adaptability, making them particularly attractive to cloud providers, enterprises, and other tech-driven organizations. In a market where 9 months can make or break a deal, having the data to prove "power-on-site" is your greatest competitive advantage. LandGate provides comprehensive tools for data center developers for site selection , due diligence, and more. Learn more and book a free demo below: What Are Powered Shell Data Centers? Powered Shell data centers are partially completed facilities designed to house computing infrastructure. Essentially, a Powered Shell provides the heavy infrastructure, like the building envelope, raw utility power, and fiber access points, without the prescriptive interior fit-out. By omitting the UPS systems, backup generators, and cooling arrays, this model allows tenants to bypass the rigid configurations of a Turnkey Data Center. Instead of moving into a pre-built environment optimized for yesterday's hardware, operators can transform these shells into specialized Inference Hubs or AI Factories. Tenants can customize the interior to meet their operational needs. Key Characteristics: Flexible Design : The interior is unfinished, allowing complete customization. Basic Infrastructure : The landlord ensures the facility has foundational elements like power access and network connectivity. Varied Sizes : These facilities can range from single-floor segments within a larger building to standalone multi-acre campuses. Developed for High Demand : Powered Shell data centers are well-suited for large-scale tenants like cloud computing providers, colocation companies, and enterprises managing AI workloads. For instance, a hyperscale cloud provider like Amazon Web Services (AWS) might lease a Powered Shell facility and tailor it to handle high-density computing needs like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning applications. Why Hyperscalers Choose Powered Shell Data Centers The primary advantage of a Powered Shell is the compression of the development timeline. By offloading the complex interior fit-out- which often involves long-lead mechanical items and proprietary cooling layouts- to the tenant, developers can hand over the keys in half the time. The Efficiency Gap: Speed to Market Comparison Metric Powered Shell Data Center Ground-Up Custom Build Delivery Timeline 9-18 months 18-36+ months Permitting Focus Exterior/ zoning/ shell Full MEP/ structural/ environmental Primary Risk Utility interconnection Supply chain & construction delays Tenant Readiness Rapid customization Linear build-out Capital Costs Higher up-front investment Lower up-front investment, higher lease costs Primary Benefits of Powered Shell Data Centers Key benefits of Powered Shell data centers include customization and operational control, faster deployment, cost efficiency, and scalability. 1) Customization and Operational Control One of the most significant benefits of Powered Shell data centers is the flexibility to adapt the facility to meet highly specific technical requirements. Tenants can modify critical components like: Power Configuration : Architecting setups with redundancy options for uninterrupted service. Cooling Systems : Implementing air-based or liquid cooling solutions that align with operational efficiency targets. Security Features: Designing custom security layouts to mitigate physical risks. Structural Adjustments: Strengthening buildings to withstand natural disasters, like hurricanes or earthquakes. A Powered Shell provides a blank canvas, allowing tenants to install specialized direct-to-chip or immersion cooling systems. This flexibility allows them to transform a standard shell into a high-performance AI factory tailored to their proprietary hardware stacks. This level of autonomy is especially appealing to organizations with unique technical needs who need their data environments to operate reliably and securely. 2) Faster Deployment Compared to building a data center from the ground up, Powered Shell facilities drastically reduce the time it takes to bring a space into operation. This is because: Initial construction hurdles, like entitlements and permit approvals, are already resolved. Core utilities, such as power infrastructure and connectivity options, are pre-installed. Modular construction methods speed up the tenant customization phase by preassembling components like cooling units offsite. On average, completing a Powered Shell data center project, from construction to full operational readiness, takes between 9 to 18 months, significantly faster than traditional new builds. 3) Cost Efficiency By leasing a Powered Shell facility, companies avoid the upfront capital expenses tied to land acquisition and large-scale construction. Instead, tenants can focus their resources on internal customizations like IT hardware and environmental controls. Furthermore, the use of pre-manufactured modular components reduces on-site construction costs, shortening timelines while ensuring high-quality installations. 4) Scalability Powered shell data centers often cater to hyper-growth businesses that need the flexibility for phased expansions. A tenant can initially occupy part of the facility and incrementally lease additional space or energy capacity as their needs evolve. How are Powered Shell Data Centers Developed? While timelines vary by strategy and scale, developments typically involve six to twelve months for exterior shell construction, which includes entitlements and basic infrastructure setup, followed by an additional three to six months for tenant-specific electrical systems, cooling, and IT equipment installation. The development of Powered Shell data centers falls into three main categories, each tailored to meet varying levels of demand: 1) Full Construction and Customization The most common approach involves building a complete exterior shell while the interior remains unfinished. The tenant signs a lease for this space and customizes it based on their needs, for example, by adding high-performance cooling and backup power systems. 2) Phased Build-Out Under this model, construction progresses in stages, aligning with tenant demand. Only portions of the building are prepared for occupancy at a time, ensuring efficiency in capital allocation. 3) Retrofitting Existing Buildings Some developers repurpose buildings originally designed for other uses (e.g., warehouses) into Powered Shells. This method can be faster and more cost-effective than constructing new builds, provided the structure meets data center-specific criteria like ceiling height and floor-load capacity. Who Uses Powered Shell Data Centers? Powered shell facilities attract a wide range of tenants, such as: Cloud Service Providers (CSPs)  like AWS and Google, who need scalable space for cloud computing. Colocation Providers , offering facilities to businesses that don’t want to operate their own data centers. Enterprises  with high-demand private cloud requirements. Telecommunications Providers , setting up infrastructure to support global connectivity. Cryptocurrency Miners , requiring energy-dense environments to support blockchain operations. An example of this is AWS’s usage of multiple powered shell properties in Virginia, where their facilities handle over 1 gigawatt (GW) in total power capacity. Key Players and Market Trends Global demand for powered shell data centers is growing, fueled by surging cloud adoption, AI workloads, and edge computing requirements. Major players in this space include: Digital Realty : A leader in this market with its Powered Base Building (PBB) solution. CyrusOne : Holding over 1.7 million square feet of powered shell space ready for development. QTS Data Centers : Specializing in powered shells with modular, scalable designs. Blackstone  (through BREIT): Owning large-scale powered shell portfolios in Virginia. How are Powered Shell Data Centers Priced? Development costs for powered shells generally account for 10-20% of the total cost of a fully operational data center. The financial structure of a powered shell is fundamentally different from a turnkey or colocation agreement. For developers, this often results in more predictable, long-term real estate returns. The Triple-Net (NNN) Lease Powered shells are almost exclusively leased under a Triple-Net (NNN)  structures that last 10-20+ years. In this model, the tenant is responsible for the "three nets": property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Pricing Model:  Typically quoted in $/SF (Price per Square Foot). Annual lease rates range from $10 to $25 per square foot, depending on location. Advantage:  Since the developer isn't managing the power usage or the complex cooling repairs, the lease functions more like traditional industrial real estate but at a premium data center valuation. The Turnkey Model Conversely, turnkey facilities are priced based on capacity. Pricing Model:  Quoted in $/kW (Price per Kilowatt) of critical load. Difference:  This includes the cost of the developer providing the UPS, generators, and cooling, which carries significantly higher CAPEX and operational risk. Final Thoughts Powered shell data centers are the perfect middle ground for organizations looking for tailored solutions without the burden of full-scale construction. By blending foundational infrastructure with customization opportunities, they allow tenants to create high-performance environments aligned with their goals. Whether you're a hyperscaler preparing for AI-powered growth or an enterprise seeking greater operational control, LandGate ® provides all essential data in site-seeking in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.

The story of electricity generation in the United States is a tale of innovation, ambition, and adaptation. From the first flickers of incandescent bulbs to the massive, invisible power that fuels our digital lives, the way we generate electricity has constantly changed. This journey reflects our nation's growth, our technological advancements, and our evolving understanding of the world around us. Today, we face a new and powerful demand: the relentless energy needs of data centers . These digital factories are the backbone of our modern economy, and their thirst for power is reshaping our energy grid. This resource explores the evolution of electricity generation in the U.S., from its early sources to the complex mix we rely on today, and examines how the rise of data centers is changing the landscape. Energy Source 2010 2025 2030 (Projected) Coal 45% 17% 8% Hydroelectric 6% 6% 5 Natural Gas 24% 40% 35% Nuclear 19% 18% 17% Renewables 6% 19% 35% Key Takeaways Water and coal were the first energy sources in the U.S. In 2025, natural gas produced the most electricity in the United States. Renewables are the fastest-growing energy type and are expected to grow significantly (from 19% to 35%) in the next 5 years. The AI and data center boom has increased pressure on the U.S. power grid. Data centers now consume roughly 5% of all U.S. power in 2025. The total investment in data center and AI infrastructure within the country has surpassed $2.5 trillion. and could exceed $6 trillion by 2030. The Landscape of Electricity Generation in the U.S. in 2025 Electricity generation in the United States surpassed 4,260 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2025, and demand is projected to grow by about 25% over the next five years. The nation’s electricity comes from a mix of fossil fuels (such as coal and natural gas), nuclear power, and renewable energy sources like wind and solar. This balance has shifted significantly over time. Today, natural gas dominates the energy mix, accounting for roughly 40% of total generation, favored for its flexibility and ability to ramp up quickly to meet daily demand. Renewables follow at about 19%, driven by wind and solar projects that provide clean, low-cost electricity during peak daylight and windy periods. Nuclear power, at 18%, supplies steady baseload energy that keeps the grid stable, while coal, now around 17%, continues to support regions where infrastructure and economics still rely on it. In 2025, U.S. hydropower rebounded to 259.1 BkWh, accounting for roughly 6% of total electricity. Driven by improved water conditions, it remains a stable renewable pillar, though its market share stays consistent as it competes with the rapid growth of natural gas and wind. Over the years, natural gas has overtaken coal as the leading source due to its lower emissions and cost, while renewables continue to expand faster than any other energy type- driven by falling technology costs and strong policy support. Nuclear power remains a steady, carbon-free source of baseload energy. Emissions, cost, and policy incentives all play key roles in determining which sources dominate the grid and how the overall energy mix shifts over time. The U.S. power grid today reflects decades of those shifting priorities and innovations. Map of Power Plants in the U.S. from LandGate   Number of Power Plants by Source in the U.S. The History of Electricity Generation in the U.S. Electricity generation in the United States has evolved dramatically over the past century, from the earliest coal-fired stations to the modern mix of renewables, nuclear, and natural gas. Each era of energy development reflects advances in technology and changes in policy. In the early 1900's, electricity was largely produced by plants powered by coal or water and later included nuclear energy and the evolution shows a clear transition to renewable energy. The timeline of U.S. electricity generations shows the transformation of how Americans used and accessed electricity. The focus is towards a cleaner, more flexible, and sustainable energy source. U.S. electricity generation by major energy source, 1950 - 2024 The Early Days: Harnessing Water and Coal The story of electricity generation in the U.S. began with coal and water. The first power plant was opened in 1882 called Thomas Edison’s Pearl Street Station and used coal-fired steam engines to supply electricity. And, two years later the first hydroelectric power plant was built in Appleton, Wisconsin, known as the Vulcan Street Plant, which used the flow of the Fox River to generate electricity for a paper mill and a few local customers.  Coal plants rapidly expanded across industrial cities, providing a reliable yet heavily polluting source of energy. Meanwhile, hydroelectric power grew as a cleaner alternative, supported by large-scale projects like Hoover Dam (1936) and Grand Coulee Dam (1942) that powered entire regions. However, the effectiveness of hydropower was highly dependent on location, rainfall, and seasonal water availability. By the mid-20th century, these two sources formed the backbone of America’s electricity supply. The Nuclear Age By the 1950's, a new power source reshaped the energy landscape: nuclear power. The source was introduced from advances during World War II, nuclear energy promised nearly limitless electricity. The first commercial nuclear plant in the U.S., Shippingport Atomic Power Station in Pennsylvania, began operating in 1958. Throughout the 1960's and 1970's, dozens of nuclear plants were constructed, reaching a peak share of about 20% of total generation by the late 1980's. Nuclear plants could be built almost anywhere and produced consistent power regardless of weather or season. Despite these advantages, nuclear energy faced growing public concern over safety, cost, and waste disposal. Incidents such as Three Mile Island (1979) and later international events like Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011) intensified the concerns around using nuclear power. These slowed expansion, but nuclear energy remains a key part of the U.S. grid today, providing steady, carbon-free baseload power. The Modern Grid: A Shift to Renewables In recent decades, U.S. electricity generation has entered a new era driven by renewables, especially wind and solar power. The first utility-scale wind farm began operating in California in 1980, followed by the Solar Energy Generating Systems (SEGS) plant in the Mojave Desert in 1984. Advances in turbine and panel technology, combined with federal incentives and state renewable policies, fueled steady growth through the 1990's and 2010's as costs fell sharply. Today, renewables are the fastest-growing sources of electricity, accounting for about 19% of total generation in 2025. However, the grid carrying this power is aging and increasingly strained. Built decades ago, it struggles to meet the rising demand from data centers, AI, and electric vehicles. Interconnection wait times stretch for years in some regions, delaying new renewable projects. To keep pace, utilities are investing in battery energy storage systems (BESS), microgrids, and smarter transmission networks capable of managing flexible, high-load power flows. The U.S. grid already supports massive demand, but modernization will be essential to ensure renewables can power the next generation of growth. Key Shifts: Future Projections for U.S. Power Sources Future projections for energy sources in the U.S. by 2030 show an acceleration of the current shift towards renewables. U.S. energy is entering a high-growth era: wind and solar are poised to become the dominant power sources, while coal continues a steep decline toward retirement. Though natural gas remains a vital stabilizer, it faces increasing pressure as soaring demand from AI data centers and electrification forces a massive, rapid investment in renewable capacity and battery storage. Renewable Energy:  According to the Energy Information Adminstration (EIA) , utility-scale solar is the fastest-growing source of electricity generation in the U.S. and is projected to grow from 290 BkWh in 2025 to 424 BkWh by 2027. For the first time in modern history, the combined output of zero-carbon sources (Wind + Solar + Nuclear + Hydro) is projected to account for 55% to 60% of the U.S. electricity mix by 2030. This would be a massive leap from the ~30% share they held in 2010. Natural Gas: Natural gas  is projected to decline in the next 5 years as renewable energy sources take the lead, but faces immense pressure as the demand for AI data centers continues to boom. Coal:  Most industry analysts expect coal to drop into the single digits (under 10%) by 2030. Remaining plants will likely operate as "peakers"- running only during extreme weather events- rather than as constant baseload power. Hydropower: Hydropower electricity generation will continue to be diluted as total demand for power in the U.S. grows. The Data Center Dilemma: A New Demand for Power Data centers are quickly becoming some of the largest electricity consumers in the United States. As cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital storage expand, these facilities demand continuous, reliable power to keep servers running and data flowing. This rising load is straining traditional grids but also accelerating the transition toward cleaner, more sustainable energy. What was once dominated by residential, commercial, and industrial developments is now being transformed into a ' New Real Estate ' by the growing needs of data centers  and renewable energy . Data centers, which once accounted for about 2.5% of U.S. electricity use in 2015, now consume roughly 5% of all U.S. power in 2025- and that number is rising fast as digital technology and AI adoption expand. According to LandGate’s detailed studies, as of February 2025, the total investment in Data Center and AI Infrastructure within the USA has surpassed $2.5 trillion, and could exceed $6 trillion by 2030. By 2030, data centers could draw nearly 9% of national power, with AI alone consuming up to 40% of that total. While much of this energy still comes from fossil fuels, the shift toward cleaner sources is accelerating. Renewables like solar and wind are increasingly powering data centers as major operators invest in their own green energy projects. This transition not only reduces emissions but also drives broader renewable energy development, helping make the digital revolution more sustainable.              AI and Data Centers - Growing share of U.S. Electricity Demand (2015-2030) Reliability and cost remain central when selecting power sources for new data center projects. Coal plants, once the backbone of generation, are in decline due to high emissions and long, five-year build times. Nuclear energy offers carbon-free reliability but faces long construction periods and steep upfront costs. Hydropower remains dependable but is constrained by geography, lengthy development, and vulnerability to drought. Renewables  such as solar and wind have emerged as the most practical path forward. Solar farms  can be built in under a year, and wind projects  typically within 12 to 18 months. Though weather-dependent, improvements in energy storage  and grid management are helping to overcome their variability. Together, these technologies offer the fastest, most scalable route to meet the power needs of a data-driven economy. Solving Grid Constraints: The Grid of the Future As electricity demand surges from data centers and a strong movement to the digital economy, the U.S. power grid is entering a new era. Solar and wind energy are leading the way, offering faster construction, lower costs, and sustainable solutions to growing demand. With the help of battery storage and smart grid technologies, renewables are reshaping how and where power is generated. Meeting future demand won’t just require more power, but data-based decisions. That’s where LandGate’s data comes in as a solution for solving the grid constraints caused by data centers. LandGate's data helps utilities, developers, and energy professionals identify the best opportunities for data center siting and renewable integration. With access to ATC (Available Transfer Capability) and AOC (Available Offtake Capacity) data, users can evaluate grid strength, compare network upgrade costs, and pinpoint locations where new projects are most feasible. LandGate’s platform also provides visibility into load projects and generation interconnections, offering a clear picture of how power moves across the grid. By leveraging this information, stakeholders can better plan around large energy loads, like data centers , and make informed, cost-effective choices that keep the grid reliable and future-ready.  To learn more about how LandGate is enabling the future of U.S. energy generation, book a demo with our dedicated energy infrastructure team. Key Terms Interconnection Queue The interconnection queue  is essentially a "waiting list" for new power plants and battery storage projects that want to connect to the regional or national electric grid. As of early 2025, the queue has reached historic levels of congestion. There is currently more capacity waiting in the queue (~2,300 GW) than exists on the entire U.S. grid today (~1,280 GW). ATC (Available Transfer Capacity) Available Transfer Capacity (ATC)  is a measure of the remaining power transfer capability in a transmission network that is available for further commercial activity. Grid operators calculate ATC using a standard formula defined by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). AOC (Available Offtake Capacity) While ATC (Available Transfer Capacity) measures how much room is left to move power through the grid, Available Offtake Capacity (AOC)  measures how much power can be reliably pulled out of the grid at a specific point. t determines if a specific substation can handle the massive localized demand of a new industrial project without causing a local blackout or requiring a multi-year equipment upgrade.

The landscape for renewable energy in the Midwest just underwent a seismic shift. On January 8, 2026, Governor JB Pritzker signed the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability (CRGA) Act into law- a landmark piece of legislation that solidifies Illinois as the national vanguard for clean energy and grid modernization. Building on the foundation of the 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), the CRGA Act isn’t just about lowering consumer bills; it’s a massive signal to renewable energy developers that Illinois is open for business, specifically in the realms of energy storage, community solar, and grid-edge technology. For developers, this legislation translates into streamlined permitting, massive new procurement targets, and a diversification of the "clean energy" definition in the state. Here is a breakdown of what this means for your pipeline. Key Provisions: Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act Building on the momentum of previous landmark laws like CEJA, the CRGA Act introduces a massive 3 GW energy storage mandate by 2030, tripling the state's investment in energy efficiency and establishing a first-of-its-kind Virtual Power Plant (VPP) program. For renewable energy developers, this legislation represents a critical market shift, offering expanded community solar caps of 10 MW, streamlined transmission planning through Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs), and a new state-led Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) designed to stabilize wholesale power costs. 1) Statewide Battery Storage Procurement Targets By setting a firm procurement target of 3 GW of energy storage by 2030, the legislation creates a massive new market for developers. This rollout will modernize the grid and lower consumer costs, providing a 24-hour energy reserve capable of powering half a million residences during critical outages. 2) Expands Utility Energy Efficiency Mandates Utility energy efficiency goals are receiving a massive boost: Ameren’s program capacity will roughly double, while ComEd’s increases by a quarter. Critically, the law triples the equity-focused spend to 25% of total budgets, unlocking $137 million per year for ComEd service areas and $55.5 million for Ameren’s. 3) Accelerates Grid Integration This legislation accelerates grid integration by modernizing the state's transmission planning and fast-tracking energy storage connections. For developers, this means lower congestion costs and a faster transition from the interconnection queue to active power delivery. 4) Establishes a State Integrated Resource Plan Under the CRGA Act , Illinois will now chart its own energy future through a comprehensive Integrated Resource Plan. This state-led modeling and ICC-approved planning process aim to curb rising wholesale costs while providing a structured, long-term blueprint for the state’s energy mix. 5) Strengthens Gas Efficiency Portfolios The Act mandates an aggressive expansion of gas efficiency portfolios for major utilities like Nicor and Peoples Gas, effectively doubling their energy reduction targets. For developers in the HVAC and building-tech sectors, the most critical update is the new 'Whole-Home' requirement: 80% of income-qualified budgets must now be allocated toward comprehensive weatherization and high-efficiency hardware, creating a stabilized, high-volume market for professional energy retrofits. Benefits of the CRGA for Energy Developers By prioritizing both large-scale infrastructure and equitable distributed generation, the Act provides a clear, long-term roadmap for developers ready to capitalize on the Midwest’s most robust clean energy economy. 1) A Massive Mandate for Energy Storage Perhaps the most significant "win" for developers in the CRGA Act is the creation of Illinois’ first energy storage procurement program. The law sets a firm target of 3,000 MW of energy storage capacity by 2030. Uniform Siting:  The Act aligns storage siting and permitting requirements with existing wind and solar standards, removing the "regulatory guessing game" that often stalls storage projects. Storage Credits:  To ensure projects are bankable, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) will implement an indexed storage credit mechanism, with initial procurements for utility-scale projects expected as early as late 2026. 2) Community Solar Expansion The CRGA Act recognizes the soaring demand for distributed generation by increasing the maximum size for community solar projects to 10 MW. This allows developers to take advantage of better economies of scale while still utilizing the state’s robust community solar incentives. 3) The Rise of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) Illinois is positioning itself as a leader in "grid-edge" reliability. The Act establishes a statewide Virtual Power Plant initiative, pooling resources like residential solar and behind-the-meter batteries to support the grid during peak demand. For developers in the residential and commercial sectors, this creates a secondary revenue stream for customers, making solar-plus-storage installations significantly more attractive. 4) Diversified Energy Portfolio: Geothermal and Nuclear The CRGA Act isn't limited to the "big two" (wind and solar). It introduces a Geothermal Homes and Businesses Program, allocating $10 million from the Renewable Energy Credit (REC) budget specifically for geothermal projects. Furthermore, in a move to ensure long-term "baseload" reliability, the Act lifts the long-standing moratorium on new, large-scale nuclear reactors. While solar and wind remain the primary engines of the transition, this multi-technology approach ensures a more stable and predictable interconnection environment for all participants. 5) Prioritizing Equity and "Solar for All" Equity remains at the heart of Illinois' energy policy. The CRGA Act expands the Illinois Solar for All program, including new carve-outs for energy storage. This ensures that developers focusing on low-income and environmental justice communities have access to dedicated funding and streamlined self-attestation processes for participants. Capitalizing on the Illinois Boom With an estimated $13.4 billion in consumer savings projected over the next 20 years, the CRGA Act is designed to make the transition to 100% clean energy both affordable and inevitable. However, as the state moves toward its first Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) in late 2026, competition for prime land and interconnection points will intensify. At LandGate , we provide the data-driven tools you need to stay ahead of these legislative shifts. From identifying high-value parcels near existing infrastructure to analyzing local zoning and fire safety standards for storage, our platform is built for the modern developer. Ready to scale your portfolio in the nation’s fastest-growing energy market? Learn more about LandGate’s Developer Tools and Book a Demo Today.

The first week of 2026 underscores a market transitioning from rapid construction to strategic operational scaling and heightened regulatory scrutiny. As the industry moves further into the new year, the focus has shifted toward securing massive, independent power solutions to bypass grid constraints and addressing local legislative resistance to large-scale developments. Vantage and Liberty Energy Partner for 1GW Power Solution Vantage Data Centers has entered a strategic partnership  with Liberty Energy to deploy high-efficiency power solutions for its North American portfolio. The agreement includes a dedicated reservation of 400MW of power generation capacity specifically for 2027, with the total partnership aiming to develop and operate up to one gigawatt of power. This collaboration is designed to support the next generation of AI-optimized infrastructure by providing long-term primary power that can operate autonomously from the local grid. For developers, this move highlights a growing trend of "behind-the-meter"  energy solutions as a necessity to ensure project viability in power-constrained markets. Brookfield Launches $10 Billion AI Cloud Platform Brookfield is attempting to disrupt the traditional cloud market by launching Radiant , an AI cloud platform backed by an initial $10 billion in funding . Unlike standard cloud providers, Brookfield is leveraging its massive existing portfolio of renewable energy and real estate to create a "vertically integrated" AI factory model. Cost Reduction Strategy : By controlling the entire stack from the land and clean energy to the data center shell and now the direct leasing of AI chips , Brookfield aims to significantly undercut the costs of traditional providers like AWS or Azure. Targeted Expansion : The platform is prioritizing projects in France, Qatar, and Sweden , where it will have "first call" on capacity. Strategic Energy Partnership : To ensure reliability in a grid-constrained market, Brookfield partnered with Bloom Energy  in a $5 billion deal  to deploy on-site fuel cells. These "behind-the-meter" power sources allow AI facilities to operate independently of the legacy power grid. Foxconn Revenue Jumps 22% Amid AI Buildout Foxconn (Hon Hai Precision Industry Co.) has emerged as a primary beneficiary of the global push for AI infrastructure, reporting a 22% jump in Q4 revenue  to NT$2.6 trillion (approx. $83 billion ). Beyond Consumer Electronics : While smart consumer electronics (like iPhones) saw flat or slightly declining performance, Foxconn's growth was almost entirely driven by its Cloud and Networking Products division . The NVIDIA Connection : As a major server assembly partner for NVIDIA, Foxconn is seeing AI server demand move from theoretical planning into massive physical purchase orders  for server racks. Future Outlook for 2026 : Despite entering the traditional "off-season" for electronics, the company expects its performance to remain at the upper end of its five-year range due to the accelerating ramp-up of AI rack shipments . Upstream Integration : Foxconn is also moving further into data center design, recently announcing a partnership with OpenAI  to co-design and manufacture next-generation AI data center hardware specifically for U.S. facilities. Local Moratoriums and Legal Challenges Mount The "construction frenzy" is facing renewed resistance from local governments and environmental groups. Wisconsin : The Midwest Environmental Advocates (MEA) has sued the state's Public Service Commission (PSC)  over redacted energy demand forecasts for Meta’s Beaver Dam campus, citing concerns over taxpayer costs and grid secrecy. Ohio : Lordstown Village Council is considering a six-month moratorium  on all new data center projects. Local officials cited critical concerns regarding the impact of these facilities on the local electrical and water supply. The lawsuit filed by Midwest Environmental Advocates (MEA) against Wisconsin’s Public Service Commission (PSC) centers on transparency regarding the massive energy demands of Meta’s data center campus in Beaver Dam. Core Issues of the MEA Lawsuit Secrecy of Energy Forecasts : The MEA alleges that the PSC and local utilities have withheld specific energy demand forecasts from the public, making it difficult for citizens to understand the project's true impact. Infrastructure Costs : A primary concern is whether residential utility customers will be forced to foot the bill for the significant grid upgrades required to power a "giga-watt scale" facility.+2 Environmental Impact : Beyond cost, the group is challenging the environmental sustainability of such a massive increase in energy consumption and its effect on Wisconsin’s long-term energy goals. Wider Regional Resistance This lawsuit is part of a growing trend of local pushback across the Midwest as residents and advocacy groups grow wary of the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure: Madison, WI : Recently advanced a one-year moratorium on zoning permits for new data centers to study their impact on resources. Lordstown, OH : Local council members are considering a six-month pause on development due to similar concerns regarding water and electrical supply. Nationwide Coalition : Over 200 environmental groups have formed a coalition demanding a national moratorium on data center development, citing a 13% rise in electricity prices over the past year. Infrastructure Solutions for Data Center Developers As regulatory and power challenges increase, LandGate provides the tools necessary to navigate project siting and energy availability. Book a demo  with our team today  to explore our tailored solutions for data center developers or visit our resource library  for the latest industry insights.

In today’s dynamic energy landscape, accurate analysis and strategic planning are essential for success in the renewable energy sector. An 8760 report provides a rich cache of detailed information that developers can use to gain an edge with their solar endeavors. In this article, we provide a guide to 8760 reports for solar development and explore the significance, generation process, interpretation, and applications of an 8760 report, as well as the best practices for their use. What is an 8760 Report? An 8760 report refers to the examination and analysis of energy generation (or load) for every hour across a span of 12 months. In the case of energy generation, the model simulates the output for all 8,760 hours within the specified time frame.  In the context of a solar project, an 8760 report provides a detailed analysis of energy generation and offers insights into the expected solar power output throughout the year, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the project's performance. Using solar irradiance data, panel efficiency calculations, and weather variations, an 8,760 report provides the granularity needed for interconnection studies, energy storage modeling, revenue forecasting (especially with TOU pricing), and PPA and merchant risk analysis. The 8760 Equation An 8760 solar report is based on the 8,760 hours in a year (24 × 365) and models how a solar project would perform hour-by-hour for an entire year on a specific property. The baseline equation for the report is: 24 hours/ day x 365 days/year = 8,760 hours/ year The core hourly energy equation for each hour ( h ) is: E h =P h x 1 hour Where: E h = energy produced in hour (kWh) P h = AC power output during that hour (kW) How an 8760 Report is Calculated An 8760 report breaks solar performance down to the most granular level possible: every hour of the year. Instead of relying on annual averages, it models how a solar project is expected to perform hour by hour using site-specific weather data, system design assumptions, and real-world loss factors. Key Data Needed for an 8760 Report To generate an accurate 8760 report, whether for solar production, building loads, or grid emissions, you need a specific cocktail of data. Category Specific Input Data Purpose Location & Climate TMY3 or AMY weather files (GHI, DNI, DHI, wind speed, temp) Defines the environmental "stress" or fuel (sun/wind) available per hour. Site Logistics Latitude, Longitude, and Time Zone Coordinates the solar position and aligns data with the local grid clock. Facility Profile Hourly Load Profile (kW) The "demand" side; shows when the building actually uses energy. System Specs Equipment capacity, efficiency curves, and degradation rates Defines how much energy the hardware can process or generate. Orientation Azimuth (heading) and Tilt angle Crucial for solar; determines the "harvest" timing throughout the day. Shading/Losses Near-shading objects, soiling, and wiring losses Accounts for real-world inefficiencies that reduce theoretical output. Utility/Rate Info TOU (Time-of-Use) schedules and Demand Charge structures Maps the energy units (kWh) to financial value ($). Steps for Calculating an 8760 Report Here's how an 8760 report is calculated: Hourly Resource Data: The 8,760 model starts with historical, site-specific weather data, usually pulled from sources like: Typical Meteorological Year (TMY) Satellite + ground-station irradiance data Includes irradiance (GHI, DNI, DHI), temperature, cloud cover, wind speed System Design Assumptions: The report applies standardized assumptions about the solar project itself, including: DC system size (MWdc) AC inverter capacity (MWac) DC:AC ratio Module and inverter type and efficiency Array orientation (tilt & azimuth) Tracking vs fixed-tilt Row spacing / shading assumptions Hour-by-Hour Energy Modeling: To produce hourly AC generation values (kWh) for each of the 8,760 hours, the model calculates: Available solar energy hitting the panels Temperature-adjusted module output Losses (soiling, wiring, mismatch, degradation, clipping, curtailment, etc.) Inverter conversion to AC power Loss Factors Applied: Loss assumptions are critical because small changes can materially impact project economics. Typical losses baked into an 8760 include: Soiling Shading (and snow, if applicable) Wiring & transformer losses Inverter efficiency Availability & downtime Final Output: The result is a table with: 8,760 hourly production values Annual energy (MWh) Capacity factor Peak output hours Seasonal and diurnal production patterns The result of an 8760 report is a detailed dataset showing a solar system’s expected energy production for every hour of the year. It provides hourly AC output, total annual energy, capacity factor, and production trends across daily and seasonal cycles. LandGate  provides comprehensive tools for solar developers allowing them to model full-scale projects instantly, including 8760 reports. How are 8760 Reports Used for Solar Development? 8760 reports are a key tool in solar development, providing detailed hourly insights into a project’s energy production throughout the year. Developers, investors, and utilities use these reports to optimize system design, evaluate financial and environmental impacts, plan for grid integration , track performance, and support renewable energy certifications. Optimization Opportunities: By examining the solar generation patterns throughout the year, the report helps identify optimization opportunities. It provides insights into peak production periods, variations due to weather conditions, and potential areas for system improvement or adjustments. Financial Analysis: The report supports financial analysis by estimating annual energy output, helping calculate revenue potential, assess project viability, and attract investors. Environmental Impact Assessment: The reports help estimate annual energy and associated greenhouse gas reductions, supporting sustainability reporting and regulatory compliance. System Design and Sizing: An 8760 solar generation report is valuable in determining the appropriate system design and sizing. It shows the expected annual energy production for a specific location, helping you optimize system design and properly size the solar plant, including panels, inverters, and other equipment needed to meet your energy goals. Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs): An 8760 report helps quantify a solar plant’s renewable energy generation, essential for claiming and trading RECs to meet renewable targets or offset emissions. Grid Integration and Planning:  For utility-scale projects, an 8760 report shows hourly and seasonal production patterns, helping utilities manage grid integration, stability, and storage or backup planning. Performance Monitoring: Once a solar farm is operational, an 8760 report acts as a performance benchmark, allowing you to compare actual production to predicted output, identify issues, and optimize system performance. P50 and P90 Estimates: An 8760 report provides the detailed hourly production data that forms the basis for P50 and P90 estimates. By modeling variability in weather and system performance across the year, analysts use the 8760 dataset to calculate the probability that a solar project will meet or exceed certain energy outputs- P50 represents the median expected production, while P90 reflects a conservative, 90% confidence level. Who Uses an 8760 Report? During the development of a utility-scale solar farm, an 8760 solar generation report is typically provided to various stakeholders involved in the project. These stakeholders include project developers, energy consultants and engineers, utility companies, regulatory authorities, and insurance providers. 1) Project Developers: Feasibility Assessment Project developers use 8760 reports to assess the feasibility and viability of the project and make informed decisions during the development process. Investors interested in funding the solar farm project often require detailed information about its expected energy generation. The 8760 solar generation report provides them with crucial data to evaluate the financial viability of the project and assess the potential return on investment. 2) Energy Consultants & Engineers: System Sizing Consultants and engineers involved in the project utilize the 8760 solar generation report to conduct technical assessments, evaluate system performance, and optimize the design of the solar farm. The report helps them understand the expected solar energy output throughout the year and plan the system accordingly. 3) Utility Companies: Solar Energy Integration Utility companies, which will purchase the electricity generated by the solar farm, may request the 8760 solar generation report to assess the reliability, capacity, and dispatch-ability of the solar power plant. This information is crucial for utility companies to integrate the solar energy into their grid and manage the overall power supply. 4) Regulatory Authorities: Approval and Permitting Regulatory bodies or government agencies responsible for overseeing and permitting energy projects may require the solar generation report as part of the approval process. The report provides essential information on the expected energy output, helping regulators assess compliance with renewable energy targets and environmental standards. 5) Insurance Providers: Risk Assessment Insurance companies may require the solar generation report to evaluate the risk associated with insuring the solar farm. The report provides them with data on the expected energy generation, allowing them to assess potential revenue losses and determine appropriate coverage. How to Get an 8760 Report for a Solar Farm The easiest way to get an 8760 report for a solar farm is through automated solar generation modeling software, like LandGate. Here's how you can get an 8760 report using LandGate's tools : 1: Login in to LandGate 2: Open a portfolio in the Parcel Data tool 3: Click 'Run Analysis' 4: Start a new Solar Analysis Project 5: Navigate to the Analysis tool 6: Click 'Run Economics' 7: Navigate to the 'Risks and Lending' Tab 8: Click on the '8760' subtab 9: View or Export the 8760 Report As the renewable energy industry continues to grow, the ability to generate accurate and detailed reports such as the 8760 report becomes increasingly crucial. By utilizing the insights derived from these reports, energy planners, facility managers, and renewable energy project developers can make informed decisions, optimize energy usage, and pave the way for a sustainable and efficient energy future. Want to discuss the use of 8760 reports with LandGate's team, or learn how to use tour platform for your business? Learn more and book a free demo:

A quiet yet powerful shift is reshaping the real estate market. What was once dominated by residential, commercial, and industrial developments is now being transformed by the growing needs of often unaccounted for pivotal industries in the real estate space- data centers  and renewable energy . This “New Real Estate” is expanding the traditional real estate market asset value by $13.1 trillion, and by likely $19 trillion in 2030 given the incredible pace of data center development. This expanded real estate in infrastructure, energy and data centers is unlocking opportunities for forward-thinking real estate investors, developers, and more and is reshaping the way we view the real estate economy of the United States. The demand for faster, more efficient data processing has skyrocketed in the digital age, propelling investment in state-of-the-art data centers. At the same time, the global push for sustainability is driving a rapid expansion in solar farms, wind turbines, and other renewable energy infrastructures. What do these seemingly disparate forces have in common? They require strategic locations, innovative land use, and tailored property development, creating an entirely new segment of the real estate market. This report will explore the factors fueling this trend, the growth potential across these industries, and how savvy stakeholders can tap into this lucrative intersection of technology and sustainability. Key Findings As of February 2025, the total investment in Data Center and AI Infrastructure within the USA has surpassed   $2.5 trillion, and could exceed $6 trillion by 2030. Data centers are poised for extraordinary growth with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 20%, which is forecasted to drive the industry’s asset value to more than $6 trillion by 2030. LandGate’s   extensive coverage of electrical infrastructure amounts to a total valuation of approximately $3.073 trillion as of February 2025. Fig. 1 Traditional Real Estate in the U.S. | Data Source: CoStar Q1 2025 Fig. 2 New Real Estate | Data Source: LandGate  What is the Market Value of U.S. Data Center Infrastructure? The demand for data centers has surged in recent years, driven by an exponential increase in global data generation and storage needs. According to LandGate’s detailed studies, as of February 2025, the total investment in Data Center and AI Infrastructure within the USA has surpassed  $2.5 trillion , and could exceed $6 trillion by 2030. Fig. 3.  Data & AI Infrastructure. Data Source: LandGate Data centers account for approximately 90%  of the massive investment in AI & Data Infrastructure. LandGate   boasts a highly comprehensive coverage of data centers, with ~5,300 colocation, hyperscale, and enterprise data centers  live on the platform, as of February 2025, totalling $2.35   trillion  in asset value. Rather than depending on volatile market real estate values, LandGate utilizes granular cost estimates for land acquisition, labor, permitting, and easements essential for data center infrastructure. This ensures a precise valuation that aligns with true development and operational expenses. LandGate offers a Data Center Due Diligence report which further analyzes the critical infrastructure around Data Centers. Key features include details about the building infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, and energy prices nodes surrounding the site of a selected data center. Fig. 4.1.  LandGate Electrical Infrastructure Substation Analysis Fig. 4.2.  LandGate Data Center Capacity & Infrastructure Analysis Factors Driving the AI Data Center Boom Three main factors driving the AI Data center boom are cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence/ machine learning. Cloud Computing:  The rapid adoption of cloud-based services by enterprises and individuals has rampantly increased storage and processing requirements. Companies like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google continue to expand their data center networks to support growing workloads. Internet of Things (IoT):  With billions of connected devices generating real-time data, industries such as smart cities, healthcare, and autonomous transportation are driving massive data accumulation. The number of IoT-connected devices is expected to surpass 29 billion by 2030 . Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI-driven applications require vast computational power and storage. Training AI models, processing large datasets, and executing complex algorithms demand high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure, increasing reliance on large-scale data centers. Looking Ahead: The Growth of Data Centers Based on LandGate’s data intelligence & analysis, data centers are poised for extraordinary growth with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 20% . This rapid expansion is forecasted to drive the industry’s asset value to more than $6 trillion by 2030 . The chart below illustrates the exponential growth trajectory, reflecting how increasing investments and rising demand for digital infrastructure will continue to transform the data center landscape. With such robust growth underpinned by surging digital demand and increasing investments, this sector offers an attractive opportunity for investors, developers, and industry professionals. Fig. 4.3.  Data Center Growth Trends by Market Value 2020-2030. Data Source: LandGate Market Value of Fiber Optic Lines Fiber optic lines contribute nearly $150 billion  to total investments in data infrastructure and AI. LandGate delivers precise data on regional/metro and long haul fiber optic lines, accurately mapping over 2 million miles  of the fiber optic network, as of February 2025. These robust networks are essential for data centers, providing the high-speed, low-latency connectivity needed for efficient data transmission and the seamless operation of modern digital and AI-driven services. Fig. 5 LandGate Data Center & Electrical Infrastructure Data Layers Real Estate Implications With trillions of dollars worth of investment, data centers have cemented their position within the New Real Estate in the United States. The widespread expansion of data centers has reshaped real estate dynamics, particularly in areas with high connectivity and infrastructure reliability. Strategic Location Considerations:  Data centers are often located near urban hubs or major fiber optic network intersections to minimize latency and maximize efficiency.  Zoning, Permitting, and Land Costs:  The development of data centers is influenced by local zoning laws, environmental regulations, and land availability. Some jurisdictions impose strict requirements related to noise, heat emissions, and energy consumption. Additionally, land costs in prime locations can be prohibitively high, leading operators to explore secondary markets and rural areas with strong connectivity infrastructure. Redevelopment and Repurposing:  Older industrial and commercial properties are increasingly being repurposed into data centers to reduce development timelines and costs. Cities like Chicago, Dallas, and Northern Virginia have become major hubs for data center expansion due to their existing infrastructure and business-friendly policies. Energy Demand and Sustainability Challenges Data centers are among the most energy-intensive facilities, consuming vast amounts of electricity to maintain 24/7 uptime and optimal operating conditions. Carbon Footprint of Data Centers : The global data center industry accounts for approximately 1-2% of total global energy consumption, with hyperscale data centers consuming up to 50 terawatt-hours (TWh) annually. The environmental impact of data centers has prompted companies to adopt carbon neutrality goals and invest in renewable energy solutions. Cooling Systems and Energy Intensity : A significant portion of energy usage (up to 40%) is allocated to cooling systems, which are essential for maintaining optimal operating temperatures. Innovative cooling solutions, such as liquid cooling, immersion cooling, and AI-driven energy optimization, are being explored to enhance efficiency and reduce energy waste. Renewable Energy Integration : Leading data center operators, including Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, are investing heavily in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power to offset their carbon footprint. Leveraging the nearly $2.5 trillion  electrical infrastructure, Data Center developers can facilitate a smooth renewable energy integration. Additionally, technologies like grid-interactive energy storage and demand response systems are also being leveraged to improve sustainability and grid resilience. What is the Market Value of Electrical Infrastructure in the U.S.? The backbone of infrastructure expansion, whether for data centers, renewables, traditional energy, or electrical networks, is heavily reliant on robust electrical infrastructure. LandGate’s extensive coverage of electrical infrastructure amounts to a total valuation of approximately $3.073 trillion, as of February 2025. Fig. 6 Electrical Infrastructure Data Source: LandGate Substations play a critical role in power distribution, and they represent a substantial portion of the overall value in our portfolio. With a total valuation of  $1.192 trillion  for more than 80,000 substations , as of February 2025, this asset class is pivotal to the infrastructure landscape. Moreover, LandGate’s substations are enhanced by comprehensive Available Injection and Offtake Studies, providing an added layer of operational insight and value. These studies help ensure optimal integration into the power grid, while also supporting strategic planning and efficient energy management. More can be read about ATC through LandGate’s ‘Transforming the Energy Workflow with Available Transfer Capacity (ATC) Data’   article. Fig. 6.1.  LandGate Substation Available Transfer Capacity & Market Value Analysis Additionally, transmission lines add a significant $1.272 trillion  to the valuation. LandGate’s coverage for transmission lines spans over an impressive 510,000 miles, as of February 2025 .  Distribution lines contribute another $162 billion, with LandGate’s coverage stretching over 257,902 miles, as of February 2025. Supporting infrastructure such as power plants and transformers further supplement this with a valuation of $448 billion . As data centers require stable, high-capacity power delivery to support their increasing workloads, investments in electrical infrastructure are fundamental to sustaining the industry's rapid growth and ensuring operational reliability. LandGate incorporates detailed cost estimates for real estate, labor, legal fees, easements, and supplementary expenses associated with electrical infrastructure. This approach provides a more accurate reflection of development costs, avoiding reliance on fluctuating market values that can distort investment feasibility. Fig. 6.2 LandGate Electrical Infrastructure & Available Transfer Capacity Data Layers What is the Market Asset Value of U.S. Renewable Energy & CCS? Integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind has become a critical strategy for data center developers seeking to reduce their carbon footprints and enhance sustainability. As of February 2025, the total renewable energy investment is nearing $1.966 trillion . Companies are increasingly turning to power purchase agreements (PPAs), onsite renewable energy generation, and battery energy storage systems (BESS) to support their transition toward greener operations. LandGate uses precise site-selection tools which further refine renewable energy and carbon project valuations by incorporating real estate, labor, legal, and easement cost estimates instead of relying on market prices, which can be inflated or highly variable. This methodology enhances investment decision-making with realistic cost structures. Fig. 7 Renewables & Carbon Data Source: LandGate Net Asset Value of Solar Farms in the US LandGate’s Solar Analysis tool  is a valuation solution for solar farms. It leverages an extensive dataset that covers projects in every status- from Active to Site Control- and integrates corresponding Pricing Nodes to accurately calculate net generation, revenue, and tax equity. This tool allows users to toggle between retail pricing and LMP pricing , providing flexible options to reflect market dynamics accurately. Additionally, the platform enables adjustments to key parameters such as the discount rate and leverage percentage, ensuring a tailored approach to forecasting. This comprehensive analysis ultimately yields a reliable Net Asset Value for each solar asset, empowering stakeholders with precise, data-driven insights for investment and operational decisions. Fig. 7.1  LandGate Solar Farms Net Asset Valuation & Cash Flow Analysis Fig. 7.2.  LandGate Solar Farm LMP & Price Node Analysis LandGate’s analysis shows that utility-scale solar dominates renewable energy investment. When assessing all utility-scale projects using LMP hub values, their total valuation reaches $895 billion for 719,529 MW of capacity as of February 2025. However, focusing only on active and under-construction projects using retail pricing, the valuation stays at $186.12 billion for 160,184 MW. In comparison, residential solar is valued at $223 billion , while Community and Commercial & Industrial (C&I) solar account for  $344 billion . These segments command higher per-unit revenue due to retail electricity pricing, unlike utility-scale projects, which primarily sell at lower wholesale rates. From an investor standpoint, utility-scale solar averages $32.61/MWh, but from a consumer perspective, where retail electricity costs $59.56/MWh, its total economic value would be nearly twice  as high. Market Value of Wind, BESS, and Carbon Injection Wells LandGate’s comprehensive data on wind farms, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and carbon capture and storage (CCS) offers an unparalleled level of insight and accuracy, empowering developers, investors, and stakeholders to make data-driven decisions in these rapidly growing markets. The platform’s wind farm coverage is valued at $465 billion and generates 232,111 MW, as of February 2025 . LandGate’s wind farm coverage includes projects of all statuses from the interconnection queue, from site control to active, tying together data to provide detailed information on project locations, capacities, and economic viability. LandGate’s Unlocking the Power of Wind Farm Development with Locational Marginal Pricing (LMP)   article explains the nuances that go behind the financial success of wind farms. LandGate’s BESS dataset delivers exceptional insights across every phase of a battery energy storage system’s lifecycle- from early-stage development and site control through to full operational status. Representing $33 billion in investments and 139,364 MWac of capacity (based on figures from February 2025), the platform provides a comprehensive view of current assets and forward-looking performance metrics. By incorporating detailed information from systems at various stages, LandGate empowers stakeholders to conduct real-time analyses, optimize grid reliability, and make strategic decisions that enhance battery storage efficiency and grid stabilization. Beyond renewables, LandGate also delivers robust CCS intelligence, highlighting an estimated injection of ~80 million tons (February 2025), which translates to a $8 billion  valuation under the current 45Q tax credit rate of approximately  $85 per ton . By combining real-time geospatial mapping, regulatory analysis, and financial modeling, LandGate’s data platform equips energy professionals with the tools they need to optimize resource development, minimize risk, and drive sustainable growth. Also,   LandGate’s ‘ A Guide to the IRA & CCS Development ’ article further explains the 45Q credit and CCS development. Key Examples of Renewable Energy Integration in Data Centers Google, Microsoft, and Amazon stand as examples of data center developers successfully integrating renewable energy into their facilities. Google : Google has committed to operating on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030, leveraging AI-driven energy management and PPAs for renewable sources. The company has signed over 7 GW of renewable energy deals globally, making it one of the largest corporate buyers of clean energy . Microsoft : Microsoft has pledged to be carbon-negative by 2030 and relies on renewable energy sources to power its Azure cloud data centers. The company invests in grid-interactive energy storage solutions and hydrogen fuel cells to supplement renewable energy during intermittencies. Amazon : Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the largest corporate buyer of renewable energy globally, with over 100 solar and wind projects supporting its data centers. AWS also uses sustainable cooling methods to improve energy efficiency. Advantages of Co-Locating Renewable Projects and Data Centers  Among the advantages of co-locating renewable energy projects and data centers are reduced transmission losses, enhanced energy security, and operational cost savings. Reduced Transmission Losses:  Electricity transmission over long distances leads to energy losses. Co-locating data centers with wind and solar farms minimizes these losses, improving energy efficiency. Enhanced Energy Security:  Onsite renewable energy generation reduces dependence on the traditional power grid, mitigating risks associated with outages and fluctuations in energy prices. Operational Cost Savings:  While the upfront investment in renewable projects is significant, long-term cost savings from lower electricity prices and potential tax incentives make renewables financially attractive. Regional Renewable Energy Resources Different regions in the U.S. offer abundant renewable energy resources, making them ideal locations for data centers powered by clean energy: Midwest (Wind Energy Hub) : States like Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas have some of the highest wind energy capacities, making them prime locations for wind-powered data centers. Fig. 7.3 LandGate Wind Farm & Infrastructure Data Layer Southwest (Solar Energy Hub) : Arizona, California, and New Mexico receive some of the highest solar irradiance in the country, making them ideal for solar farms co-located with data centers. Fig. 7.4 LandGate Solar Farm Data Layer Challenges in Renewable Adoption  Key challenges in adopting renewable energy integrations with data centers are intermittencies in supply and high initial capital expenditure costs. Intermittencies in Supply : Solar and wind energy generation is weather-dependent, leading to fluctuations in energy availability. This stipulation is offset by battery storage systems, though, since they ensure uninterrupted power supply Initial Capital Expenditure vs. Long-Term ROI: Developing renewable projects requires high upfront costs for infrastructure, land acquisition, and grid interconnection. However, long-term cost savings, corporate sustainability incentives, and government subsidies can offset these expenses over time. What is the Market Asset Value of The Traditional Energy Sector? The traditional energy sector remains a cornerstone of the global economy, with substantial investments in oil, natural gas, and pipeline infrastructure. According to LandGate’s data analysis as of February 2025, the total valuation of remaining recoverable hydrocarbons and associated infrastructure in the U.S. has surpassed $5.469 trillion . Fig. 8 Traditional Energy Data Source: LandGate For oil and gas infrastructure, LandGate applies cost-based valuation methodologies that factor in land, labor, legal, and easement expenses, ensuring more reliable assessments than those based solely on fluctuating real estate market values. This enables a more strategic and data-driven approach to asset development.   As of February 2025,   LandGate’s extensive natural gas data coverage encompasses more than 1.5 million  producing oil and gas wells with historical production data, along with hydrocarbon pipelines spanning 35,874 miles - valued at  $157 billion . In addition, natural gas pipelines stretch for 739,754 miles , representing a $462 billion  investment. These datasets provide unparalleled insights into operational performance, infrastructure capacity, and asset valuation. By integrating geospatial mapping, production analytics, and economic modeling, LandGate empowers operators, investors, and landowners to assess opportunities, mitigate risks, and optimize resource development across the entire energy landscape. Fig. 8.1 LandGate Oil & Gas, Mineral Data Layers Market Asset Value of Oil, Gas, and NGLs LandGate’s Oil & Gas Analysis tools  leverage an extensive repository of well data including mapping of all producing, drilled and permitted wells. In addition Landgate maps proven un-developed (PUD) well locations across all major U.S. Oil and Gas Basins. Each well is paired with geologic and reservoir mapping, historical and forecasted production data to deliver accurate well-by-well forecasts utilizing typecurve forecasts. LandGate generates type-curve forecasts by analyzing past production trends for oil, gas and NGL production streams to accurately calculate the remaining Estimated Ultimate Recovery (EUR)  for each well. Moreover, LandGate captures current and future trading prices, more specifically the NYMEX WTI Oil and Henry Hub Natural Gas prices. These prices are used to calculate commodity pricing forecasts, enabling precise revenue modeling and NAV calculations over time. This data-driven approach not only enhances forecasting accuracy but also empowers users to make informed decisions based on granular, asset-level insights. Fig. 8.2  LandGate Oil & Gas Economic Modeling Data & Analysis Using LandGate’s data intelligence, as of February 2025, it can be determined that crude oil reserves (Remaining OIL EUR) lead the traditional energy sector with over 500 billion   barrels  of recoverable oil at $76.55 per barrel . Natural gas and liquids reserves (Gas & NGL EUR) hold an estimated 1.5 trillion MCF  with a $3.20 per thousand cubic feet (MCF)  pricing metric. LandGate valued the estimated and risked cashflows of all the Producing Developed (PDP), Drilled Proven not Developed (PDNP), Permitted proven undeveloped (PUD) and Upside proven undeveloped (PUD) locations all over the US to $4.8 trillion. The New Real Estate: Case Studies  Key case studies showcasing the successful integration of renewable energy resources into data center development in the context of the New Real Estate include Google and Digital Realty. Google's Renewable Energy-Powered Data Center in Iowa Google has made significant investments in Iowa to power its data centers with renewable energy. In 2010, Google signed a 20-year agreement to purchase 114 megawatts of wind power from a wind farm in Iowa, marking its first direct investment in renewable energy. This initiative has expanded over the years, with Google investing an additional $5.5 billion in its Council Bluffs data center campus. These efforts align with Iowa's status as a leader in wind energy, providing a sustainable power source for Google's operations. Digital Realty's Acquisition of Multi-Purpose Land for Data Centers and Solar Farms Digital Realty, a real estate investment trust, owns and operates numerous data centers worldwide and is committed to sustainability. Digital Realty has integrated renewable energy solutions into its facilities, with 126 data centers globally matched with renewable energy, including 100% renewable energy powering its European portfolio and U.S. colocation data centers. This approach not only meets the growing demand for data storage but also aligns with environmental sustainability goals. Fig. 9 LandGate Data Centers Data Layer Looking Ahead to the “New Real Estate” Market  The additional real estate market of Energy, Infrastructure, and Data Centers is estimated at $13.095 trillion   market asset value as of Feb 2025, and is estimated to grow to $19 trillion  in 2030, and $27 trillion  in 2035. This market is now entirely part of real estate, in what we refer to as “New Real Estate”. The fusion of data centers and renewable energy infrastructure represents a seismic shift in what defines valuable real estate today. These rapidly evolving markets offer immense opportunities not only for tech and energy companies but also for forward-thinking real estate stakeholders ready to adapt to these emerging trends. With data centers becoming the backbone of our digital world and renewable energy driving sustainable operations, the intersection of these industries will continue to shape the future of investment and development. The numbers speak volumes- trillions of dollars are pouring into these sectors, promising robust growth and long-term returns. The future is clear: successful real estate strategies will need to prioritize connectivity, infrastructure reliability, and environmentally conscious operations. For those in the real estate market, there has never been a better time to explore opportunities in data center development and renewable energy integration. Understanding these markets today positions you to lead tomorrow. To learn more about LandGate’s data  and market analyses, reach out   to our dedicated energy & data team.

The final week of 2025 highlights a market defined by massive consolidation and record-breaking financial milestones. As the industry moves toward 2026, the focus has shifted to strategic acquisitions by global tech giants and the formalization of reliability standards to support the relentless demand for AI infrastructure Data center deals hit all-time record of $61 billion The data center sector has officially entered a period of unprecedented capital flow, with total transaction volume reaching a historic $61 billion in 2025. This record-breaking figure  is driven by the massive buildout required for AI, even as some investors express concerns regarding long-term funding models. Despite these concerns, current estimates suggest that demand will continue its upward trajectory, validating the asset class's essential role in the global economy. Total data center transaction volume reached a historic peak of $61 billion this year. This record spend is attributed to a massive surge in development and acquisition activity as firms scramble to build out capacity for AI workloads. Despite some investor concerns regarding the long-term funding of AI, market estimates indicate that demand for new facilities will continue to rise through the coming year. For the broader industry, this figure validates the status of data centers as a premier asset class, though it also signals increasing competition for power, land, and capital. 2025 Data Center Investment Comparison Metric / Project 2025 Market Total Meta (Fall 2025 Plan) Oracle/OpenAI "Stargate" Total Commitment $61 Billion  (Annual Record) $600 Billion  (through 2028) $500 Billion+  (Multi-year) 2025 Spending $61 Billion (Deals/Transactions) $66–$72 Billion  (Projected Capex) $21.2 Billion  (Fiscal 2025 Capex) Key Focus Areas Acquisitions, Colocation, and Cooling US AI-ready campuses; workforce development 10GW of total infrastructure; Project Stargate Notable Site(s) North Carolina (WhiteFiber) Louisiana (Hyperion); Ohio (New Albany) Michigan (Stargate); Texas (Project Jupiter) SoftBank acquires DigitalBridge in $4 billion AI push SoftBank has aggressively expanded its footprint in the artificial intelligence sector by acquiring the prominent data center firm  DigitalBridge for $4 billion. This acquisition secures critical physical infrastructure for SoftBank's AI roadmap, a move that the market responded to with immediate optimism as DigitalBridge's shares jumped upon the report. For investors and developers, this deal signals a premium on established platforms that can immediately provide the scale required for next-generation computing. SoftBank has reached a deal to acquire data center firm DigitalBridge for $4 billion. The acquisition is a central component of SoftBank's aggressive push into artificial intelligence, aimed at securing the underlying physical infrastructure necessary for advanced computing. DigitalBridge shares saw a significant jump following reports of the acquisition talks. For developers and investors, this deal underscores the high premium placed on established data center platforms as hyperscalers and investment groups race to control global compute capacity. NVIDIA partners with Intel; invests $5 billion in stock In a major move to stabilize its supply chain and advance product development, NVIDIA has entered a strategic partnership  with Intel focused on custom data center and PC products. To solidify this alliance, NVIDIA is investing $5 billion in Intel stock at a set price of $23.28 per share. This collaboration between two industry titans is designed to accelerate the delivery of specialized AI hardware, ensuring that the infrastructure demands of the current "construction frenzy" are met with reliable manufacturing and engineering support. NVIDIA has entered into a strategic partnership with Intel to develop custom products for both the PC and data center markets. As part of this collaboration, NVIDIA is investing $5 billion in Intel stock at a purchase price of $23.28 per share. This partnership marks a significant alignment between two industry leaders to streamline the production of specialized hardware for AI-driven data centers. By securing a multi-billion dollar stake and a manufacturing partner, NVIDIA is positioning itself to better manage supply chain volatility and meet the hardware requirements of the "construction frenzy" currently gripping the market. WhiteFiber completes $865 million North Carolina deal WhiteFiber has finalized a major $865 million expansion  at its flagship North Carolina location, securing 40MW of neocloud space. The deal includes a 10-year colocation agreement, providing long-term stability and high-density capacity in a key regional market. This transaction demonstrates the continued appetite for "neocloud" solutions, which allow tenants to deploy AI-ready workloads quickly without the lead times associated with entirely new ground-up developments. Colocation firm WhiteFiber has finalized an $865 million agreement for its flagship facility in North Carolina. The deal includes the provision of 40MW of neocloud space and a 10-year colocation contract for the site. This transaction highlights the continued importance of the North Carolina market and the growing demand for large-scale, long-term colocation commitments. Developers are increasingly utilizing these "neocloud" models to provide flexible, high-density environments for tenants requiring immediate AI-ready capacity. FranklinWH earns industry-first TIA-942 certification In a milestone for the energy storage sector, FranklinWH became the first battery storage company  to earn the TIA-942 Rated 1-4 certification. This certification is the gold standard for data center reliability, ensuring that the infrastructure can support "always-on" operations. By meeting these rigorous requirements, FranklinWH is bridging the gap between residential/commercial energy storage and the critical uptime demands of the data center industry, offering a new path for resilient, decentralized power. FranklinWH has become the first battery storage company to achieve TIA-942 Rated 1-4 certification. This is the same rigorous data center standard used to ensure the reliability of "always-on" infrastructure. The certification signals a convergence between residential/commercial energy storage and professional data center reliability requirements. As data centers face increasing scrutiny over grid stability, the adoption of these standards by storage providers offers a path toward more resilient, decentralized power solutions that can meet high-uptime demands. Data & Infrastructure Solutions for Data Center Developers Discover how we address critical challenges like power availability  and project siting , and explore our range of available solutions. Book a demo  with our dedicated team. LandGate provides tailored solutions for data center developers. You can also visit our library of data center resources.

The competition for prime land in the United States has never been fiercer. As the digital economy expands and the clean energy transition accelerates, data centers and utility-scale solar farms  are increasingly vying for the same parcels of land. Both require vast acreage, robust infrastructure, and specific environmental conditions, creating a complex challenge for landowners, developers, and investors alike: determining the "highest and best use." Traditional land valuation methods often fall short in this dynamic environment. We have entered the era of " New Real Estate ," where a property’s value is no longer determined solely by its soil quality or residential zoning, but by its proximity to a high-voltage transmission line and a fiber-optic backbone. For developers and landowners alike, the two titans of this new market are Utility-Scale Solar and Hyperscale Data Centers . While both compete for similar acreage, their valuation models, site requirements, and long-term yields couldn't be more different. The Intensifying Scramble for Land The insatiable demand for cloud computing, AI, and digital services is driving an unprecedented boom in data center construction. These facilities are energy-intensive, requiring massive power substations, fiber optic connectivity, and flat, easily developable land. Proximity to urban cores (for low latency) and access to stable, affordable electricity are paramount in siting decisions . Major tech companies are actively scouting sites, often willing to pay significant premiums for ideal locations. As renewable energy targets become more aggressive and the cost of solar technology continues to fall, utility-scale solar projects  are proliferating. These developments require vast, unshaded tracts of land with good solar irradiance, access to high-voltage transmission lines, and minimal environmental obstructions. State and federal incentives, coupled with corporate sustainability goals, are fueling rapid expansion. The collision course between these two industries is evident in numerous regions, particularly across the Sun Belt, parts of the Midwest, and areas with robust electrical grids. The question is no longer if  a parcel of land is valuable, but how  valuable, and for which  purpose. The Valuation Divide: Solar vs. Data Centers When evaluating land, developers use different yardsticks. Solar developers typically look at long-term lease yields (royalties), while data center developers often look at high-capital acquisition or premium industrial leases. Valuation Metrics: Solar vs. Data Centers Metric Utility-Scale Solar Data Centers Primary Valuation Basis Per acre/ Per MW royalty Per acre/ Per kW (IT Load) Typical Lease Rate ~$1,000 - $2,500/ ac/ yr ~$50,000 - $250,000/ ac (fee simple) Royalty Comparison ~$2,000 - $5,000/ MW/ yr N/A (usually owner-occupied) Land Requirement 5 - 10 acres/ MW 20 - 150+ acres/ campus Contract Length 20 - 40 years Indefinite (permanent build) Key Value Driver Interconnection (capacity) Power availability + fiber latency Keep in mind that while solar offers a steady, long-term passive income stream (averaging $1,000–$2,500 per acre), data centers represent a "jackpot" scenario. Because data centers house billions of dollars in servers and infrastructure, developers are often willing to pay a massive premium- sometimes $100,000 to over $500,000 per acre- for "shovel-ready" land that has guaranteed power allocations from the utility. Data Centers vs. Utility-Scale Solar: Land Valuation Framework for the Highest and Best Use of Prime Acreage LandGate's framework moves beyond simplistic "comps" by integrating an array of advanced data points and analytical models to perform a truly comprehensive land valuation. It focuses on quantifying the specific value drivers for both  data centers and utility-scale solar, allowing for a direct, data-driven comparison. Step 1: Foundational Land Attributes & Market Assessment Every land valuation begins with the basics, but our framework deepens this analysis by including factors like parcel details, zoning & permitting, environmental & cultural considerations, and local market dynamics. Parcel Specifics:  Size, topography (elevation changes, slope), flood plain data, soil stability (crucial for heavy data center equipment), existing easements, and access points. Zoning & Permitting:  Detailed analysis of current and potential zoning classifications, local attitudes towards industrial vs. renewable development, and the complexity/timeline for obtaining necessary permits for both use cases. Environmental & Cultural Constraints:  Identification of wetlands, protected species habitats, historical sites, and agricultural easements that could impede development for either use. Local Market Dynamics:  Property tax rates, labor availability (construction and operational), and community sentiment towards large-scale industrial or energy projects. LandGate maintains data layers for all of these land attributes, allowing developers to quickly evaluate parcels based on their specific criteria. LandGate's Buildable Acreage Data Layer Step 2: Comprehensive Site Suitability Data for Competing Uses Next, LandGate's framework provides data that evaluates various suitability factors so developers can assess a potential data center site with confidence . This is where our novel framework truly differentiates itself, integrating specialized datasets to score a parcel's suitability for each use case. Data Center Suitability Factors Key data that LandGate provides so developers can assess a potential data center site includes power proximity & capacity, fiber optic connectivity, water availability, and risk factors. Power Proximity & Capacity: Substation Proximity: Distance to nearest high-voltage substations (138kV, 230kV, 500kV). Shorter distances significantly reduce interconnection costs and timelines. Available Capacity: Real-time or forecasted substation capacity. Is there enough headroom to support a multi-megawatt data center load (often 50MW+)? Reliability & Redundancy: Grid stability, presence of multiple transmission lines for redundancy, and historical outage data. Fiber Optic Connectivity: Proximity to Fiber Backbones: Distance to major long-haul fiber routes. Low latency is critical. Multiple Providers: Presence of diverse fiber paths from different carriers to ensure redundancy and competitive pricing. Water Availability (for cooling): Access to municipal water sources or viable well sites, considering water rights and environmental impact for evaporative cooling systems, if applicable. Risk Factors: Natural Disaster Risk: Seismic activity, tornado/hurricane zones, wildfire risk – all impact operational continuity and insurance costs. Flight Path/Airport Proximity: Noise and vibrational impacts, as well as FAA restrictions on building height. LandGate's Data Center Map Layers (Electrical Infrastructure) Utility-Scale Solar Suitability Factors In terms of utility-scale solar siting suitability factors, LandGate provides comprehensive irradiance data, interconnection point access, topography & geotechnical layers, and environmental data. Solar Irradiance Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) & Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI): Average annual solar resource data is fundamental. Higher irradiance translates to higher energy production and revenue. Shading Analysis: Identification of topographical features or existing structures that could cause significant shading. Interconnection Point Access Transmission Line Proximity: Distance to existing high-voltage transmission lines (e.g., 69kV, 138kV, 230kV). Substation Capacity & Congestion: Available capacity at the nearest substation and overall grid congestion in the region. Interconnection queue analysis is vital. Phase & Voltage Compatibility: Ensuring the parcel's location aligns with suitable transmission infrastructure. Topography & Geotech Slope Analysis: Ideal solar sites are relatively flat (typically <5% slope) to minimize grading costs and maximize panel efficiency. Soil Conditions: Suitability for driven piles or helical piers used in racking systems. Avoidance of bedrock close to the surface or highly expansive soils. Environmental & Regulatory Wildlife Corridors & Habitats: Presence of endangered species. Agricultural Land Classifications: Impact of developing prime farmland. Glare Analysis: Potential impact on nearby roads, airports, or residences. LandGate's Utility-Scale Solar Data Layer Step 3: Financial Modeling & Comparative Highest and Best Use Analysis Once suitability scores are established for each land use, the framework moves to sophisticated financial modeling using detailed cost analysis, revenue projections, risk-adjusted valuations, and net present value and internal rate of return metrics. Cost Analysis:  Detailed breakdown of development costs for both a theoretical data center and solar farm on the specific parcel. This includes land acquisition, permitting , interconnection, site preparation, construction, and ongoing operational expenses. Revenue Projections: Data Center: Lease rates per square foot, potential for build-to-suit agreements, regional demand, and estimated operational revenue. Solar Farm: Projected energy production (MWh/year) based on irradiance and system design, power purchase agreement (PPA) prices, renewable energy credit (REC) values, and incentive programs (e.g., ITC). Risk-Adjusted Valuations:  Applying discount rates that reflect the specific risks associated with each project type (e.g., market volatility for energy prices, technological obsolescence for data centers). Net Present Value (NPV) & Internal Rate of Return (IRR):  Calculating these key financial metrics for both scenarios to provide a direct, quantitative comparison of potential returns. The output of this comprehensive analysis provided by LandGate is a clear, data-backed assessment of which land use scenario represents the true highest and best use for that specific parcel, considering its unique attributes and market conditions. The Hybrid Model: Solar-Powered Data Centers (Co-location) For years, these two asset classes were seen as competitors for the same land. Today, we are seeing the rise of a hybrid valuation model: The Solar-Powered Data Center. As Big Tech (Amazon, Google, Microsoft) commits to 24/7 carbon-free energy, the HBU of a massive site may actually be co-location. In this model, a data center is built on-site or adjacent to a utility-scale solar farm. Why Co-location Boosts Valuation Co-locating solar farms and data centers boost valuation because it offers lower transmission costs, faster speeds to market, and ESG premiums. Reduced Transmission Costs:  With behind-the-meter (BTM) pairing, the data center can pull power directly from the solar array, avoiding certain utility transmission charges. Speed to Market:  In regions where the grid is congested, a data center that brings its own "power plant" (solar + battery storage) may get approved faster. ESG Premium:  Data centers powered by on-site solar command higher valuations from investors and satisfy strict corporate sustainability mandates. In these hybrid scenarios, land valuation isn't just a "rent per acre" calculation; it becomes a complex "energy-as-a-service" valuation that can significantly outpace traditional solar leases. How to Evaluate Potential Solar and Data Center Sites: The LandGate Advantage The competition between data centers and utility-scale solar is a defining characteristic of today's land market. Making the optimal siting decision demands a robust, data-driven approach. Whether you are a solar developer looking for the next 500-acre array site or a data center developer hunting for a site with 100MW of available capacity, data is your most valuable asset. LandGate provides the "New Real Estate" ecosystem with the tools to determine HBU instantly. Our platform allows users to: Identify Interconnection Points:  Locate substations and transmission lines with ease. Analyze Capacity:  Understand the power potential of a site before you ever set foot on it. Calculate True Value:  Compare solar lease potential against industrial data center acquisition prices. By integrating comprehensive land attributes with granular site suitability data from LandGate for both energy and digital infrastructure, our novel valuation framework provides the clarity needed to navigate this complex landscape. It empowers stakeholders to unlock the maximum potential of their prime acreage, ensuring that land is allocated to its most productive and profitable purpose in our rapidly evolving economy. Don't leave your valuation to guesswork. L earn more about LandGate’s breadth of data and tools for utility solar and data center developers below or book a demo  with our dedicated infrastructure team.

Data center development has become a game of regulatory chess. While headlines are often dominated by local moratoriums in maturing hubs like Northern Virginia or parts of Georgia, a strategic shift is occurring. Developers are no longer just looking for power  and fiber , they are looking for political stability and legislative partnership. At LandGate , we believe the key to a resilient portfolio isn’t just reacting to restrictive measures, but identifying the "Green Zones": markets where the legislative and community environment actively supports digital infrastructure. The Landscape of the "Pause" It is important to view current moratoriums not as a industry-wide "no," but as a local "slow down" for infrastructure reassessment. As of late 2025, we’ve seen local-level pauses in: Indiana:  Counties like White and Marshall have paused projects to study environmental impacts. Missouri:  St. Louis and St. Charles have implemented temporary pauses to update zoning ordinances. Georgia:  Several counties have triggered 180-day moratoriums to align growth with water resource availability. For developers, these pauses are a signal to look toward states that have already integrated data centers into their long-term economic strategy. Where Growth is Encouraged: The Strategic "Green Zones" While some areas pull the emergency brake, others are laying out the red carpet with tax incentives, streamlined permitting, and "microgrid-friendly" legislation. 1. West Virginia: The New Regulatory Gold Standard In early 2025, West Virginia's legislature took a landmark step by adopting language that shields "microgrid" districts from certain local zoning and noise codes. This makes West Virginia one of the most developer-friendly jurisdictions in the country for high-density AI workloads that require on-site power generation. West Virginia Data Center Infrastructure 2. Texas: The Resilience Play Texas  continues to be the primary alternative to the East Coast. Its independent grid (ERCOT) and abundant land in markets like Dallas-Fort Worth  and San Antonio  offer a scale that traditional hubs can no longer match. Texas remains a "right-to-build" stronghold where large-scale power allocations are still moving through the queue without the "moratorium risk" seen in coastal metros. Texas Data Center Infrastructure 3. Kansas & The Midwest Corridor Kansas recently became the 37th state to offer specific data center incentives, requiring a $250 million investment in exchange for significant sales tax exemptions. Along with Iowa  and Ohio , the Midwest is positioning itself as the "AI Heartland," offering stable land prices and a political climate that views data centers as vital tax-revenue engines rather than burdens. Kansas Midwest Corridor Data Center Infrastructure 4. Pennsylvania & The Mid-Atlantic Pivot As Northern Virginia faces scarcity, Pennsylvania is aggressively vying for AI and High-Performance Computing (HPC) projects. The state is offering expedited approvals and industry-friendly regulations to capture the "spillover" demand from its southern neighbor. Pennsylvania Mid-Atlantic Data Center Infrastructure Strategic Comparison: Market Sentiment 2025 Market State Regulatory Status Primary Advantage Developer Strategy West Virginia Highly Supportive State-level zoning overrides AI-heavy, high-density campuses Texas Robust/Open Grid independence & land scale Large-scale hyperscale clusters Kansas New Incentives 2025 Sales tax exemptions Greenfield builds / Mid-market Indiana Local Volatility Strong state support, local pushback Focus on state-aligned "Enterprise Zones" How to Pivot from Data Center Moratorium to Delivery A moratorium in one county is an opportunity in the next. To stay ahead of the regulatory curve, developers should focus on three strategic pillars: Target "Home Rule" Safe States:  Prioritize states like West Virginia that have consolidated regulatory power at the state level, reducing the risk of a surprise local ordinance halting a project mid-development. Leverage LandGate Intelligence:  Use data to identify sites  near existing transmission lines where "by-right" zoning is already in place. The best way to avoid a moratorium is to build where the land is already designated for your use. The "Microgrid" Approach:  Areas that are wary of the public grid are often much more welcoming to projects that bring their own power (SMRs, Hydrogen, or Natural Gas generation). The rise of data center moratoriums isn’t a sign of industry decline; it is a sign of industry maturity. As the physical footprint of the digital world expands, the strategy for deployment must evolve from simply chasing connectivity to securing long-term regional partnerships. For the forward-thinking developer, the current regulatory landscape offers a distinct competitive advantage. While others are sidelined by local pauses in oversaturated markets, strategic players are securing land in "Green Zone" states where the legislative infrastructure is as robust as the fiber. By prioritizing areas with state-level support, favorable zoning, and energy independence, you can ensure your projects move from groundbreaking to operational without the friction of regulatory uncertainty. At LandGate, we are committed to providing the data-driven insights you need to find these pockets of opportunity. The next era of data center growth isn't just about where the power is, it’s about where the path to development remains wide open. To learn more, book a demo  with our dedicated infrastructure team.

Topos Acquisition Solidifies LandGate's Position as the Definitive Vertical Authority for Data Center and Renewable Energy Site Assessment and Capital Deployment in the U.S. LandGate Corp ., the industry-leading data solutions provider for site selection, due diligence, and insights in the energy and infrastructure space, today announced it has acquired in an all-cash transaction, Topos , an AI-powered insights provider specializing in faster due diligence for battery storage, renewable energy and power projects. "The market requires speed and certainty. With the exponential rise in energy demand and the acute challenge of grid constraints in virtually every region, there is zero tolerance for speculative development. This strategic acquisition of Topos not only expands our data footprint but integrates a powerful AI engine directly into our platform, allowing our users to identify and run due diligence on optimal sites in hours, not months." -Yoann Hispa, CEO of LandGate Corp.  The acquisition immediately reinforces LandGate's authority as the premier provider for the data center, energy and infrastructure sectors through proprietary data, analytics and automated reports. By integrating Topos ’ advanced AI capabilities, which automatically analyze competitive leases, local permits, meeting notes, public sentiment and regulatory constraints, LandGate   is significantly enhancing its site selection solutions, delivering unparalleled speed and granularity that replace costly consultant fees. "The Topos team is very excited to be part of LandGate and to offer Topos clients even better integrated products. I am personally thrilled to join LandGate’s Advisory Board to help the continued AI implementation into LandGate products, undeniably the most complete and accurate data for data center, battery storage, and energy development & financing." - Landon Brand, CEO and Cofounder of Topos The immense macroeconomic pressure on the U.S. energy landscape is due to the factorial growth rate of energy demand, driven by electrification and data center development. This dual challenge demands that capital be deployed with absolute precision and speed. LandGate’s data & platform provide this mission-critical capability for site selection, due diligence, and insights of energy & infrastructure projects to developers, investors, utilities, ISOs, and banks. "This acquisition further establishes LandGate as the premier site selection and due-diligence platform for data center and energy projects in the U.S.  We are uniquely positioned to not only provide the best electrical infrastructure data but to complete it with natural gas infrastructure analytics, including historical, live, and forecasted gas production, and delivery and offtake insights, very much needed by developers who now focus on an all-of-the-above energy solution to power data center growth." -Craig Kaiser, President of LandGate Corp.   The combined entity will allow customers to move seamlessly from initial land valuation and risk assessment to deep, local-level due diligence, ensuring that only the most viable projects are advanced. The result is a substantial reduction in time-to-market for vital energy and infrastructure projects needed to alleviate current supply and grid-related pressures. About LandGate LandGate  is the leading provider of data solutions for site selection, origination, development, financing, and market analysis of U.S. energy and infrastructure projects: data centers, energy storage, EV’s, solar, wind, carbon, natural gas, and CCS.

The energy landscape in the Western United States is undergoing a seismic shift. As the demand for computing power accelerates, driven by the explosion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and hyperscale cloud computing, the pressure on the grid to provide reliable, massive loads is unprecedented. For developers and utilities, the challenge is no longer just finding land; it is finding land with power . To meet this challenge, LandGate is pleased to announce a significant leap forward in transmission analytics: we have unleashed the power of AI to create Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC ) queue models . This release provides a valuable new resource for developers, utilities, and project stakeholders involved in new generation and data center projects . The Data Center Dilemma: Injection vs. Offtake As data centers continue to expand rapidly across the country, ensuring reliable and efficient power infrastructure is crucial. However, the grid is not a static entity; it is a dynamic network constrained by physics and regulation. Successful project planning now hinges on understanding the transmission system’s ability to support two distinct but related stresses: Generation Injection :  Can the grid handle the power being added by new renewables or thermal plants? Load Offtake :  Can the grid deliver the massive capacity required by a specific data center node without causing thermal violations or voltage collapse? Injection Capacity (or Available Transfer Capacity) shown on the LandGate platform Load Offtake Capacity shown on the LandGate platform The availability of WECC queue models on LandGate offers a streamlined way to perform this detailed injection and offtake analysis, helping projects move forward with confidence. What Are Queue Models? (And Why Standard Models Aren’t Enough) Most transmission analysis relies on "base cases", or snapshots of the grid as it exists today, perhaps with a few approved upgrades. However, these models ignore the massive backlog of projects currently waiting in line to connect. Queue models represent the detailed assumptions and data associated with current  transmission project interconnection requests within the WECC. By incorporating these pending requests, our models simulate potential impacts on the transmission network more accurately than a standard base case. This allows developers to: Evaluate System Capacity:  See how the grid behaves if the projects ahead of you in the queue actually come online. Identify Congestion:  Pinpoint potential bottlenecks that only appear when future generation and loads are modeled. This insight is especially critical for data centers, which are energy-intensive and highly sensitive to power delivery constraints. A site might look viable on a current map, but a queue model might reveal that a solar farm proposed nearby will use up the available transmission capacity before your facility is built. The LandGate Advantage: AI-Powered Analytics Traditionally, building queue models is a labor-intensive process involving sifting through thousands of PDF filings and disparate utility data formats. LandGate has automated and enhanced this process using AI, unlocking critical transmission insights that were previously difficult to access. This powerful tool allows for more scenarios to assess transmission system capacity for both injection and offtake. Key Benefits of AI-Powered Analytics for Developers and Utilities Enhanced Planning & Feasibility:  Quickly assess the feasibility of connecting new data center loads or renewable generation sources before sinking capital into land acquisition or interconnection deposits. Accurate Impact Analysis:  You can now model the injection of power into specific nodes and analyze system responses to ensure reliable operation. This helps in predicting curtailment risks and basis risk (price separation). Accelerated Development:  By making informed decisions early in the project lifecycle, you can reduce delays caused by unforeseen transmission bottlenecks. User-Friendly Visualization:  LandGate offers an intuitive interface for accessing, visualizing, and analyzing this complex transmission data, making high-level engineering studies manageable for broader teams. A New Standard for Grid Analysis The availability of these models empowers developers, utilities, and stakeholders to conduct rigorous transmission planning and integration analysis tailored to the unique needs of data center projects. Whether you’re evaluating new generation injection points to power the AI revolution, or assessing offtake capacities for a new hyperscale facility, the WECC queue models on LandGate are now your go-to resource. Get Started Utilizing AI-Driven WECC Queue Models Today Don't let grid uncertainty stall your development pipeline. Visit LandGate  today to explore these models and take the next step in your project development. For assistance or more information, feel free to reach out to our team  for a demo customized to your use cases.

The data center industry is facing a critical inflection point, with the pursuit of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) driving expenditure into the trillions while simultaneously exposing vulnerabilities in financing, supply chains, and local regulatory environments. This week’s headlines underscore the extreme capital commitments required for AI-scale infrastructure alongside the significant development risks and the continued push for specialized cooling innovations. IBM CEO breaks down $8 trillion AGI push cost IBM CEO Arvind Krishna has presented a stark estimate  of the financial outlay required for the industry’s pursuit of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), stating that a 100-gigawatt AGI effort could cost a massive $8 trillion . He noted that outfitting a single one-gigawatt AI data center costs about $80 billion at "today's number". This astonishing capital expenditure projection is based on announced AI infrastructure plans. For data center developers, this figure validates the extreme nature of the AI infrastructure gold rush but also introduces significant financial risk. Krishna highlighted that AI hardware, such as GPUs, often needs to be replaced in about five years due to depreciation, placing constant pressure on future capital expenditure and return on investment (ROI). Developers must find financial models that can absorb these rapid refresh cycles and justify the staggering initial cost, particularly when the monetization path for AGI remains uncertain. Oracle denies data center delays, considers “bring your own hardware” model Oracle  has denied a report  suggesting delays for several OpenAI  data centers—part of the "Stargate" venture—due to shortages in labor and materials, maintaining that all milestones remain on track. However, a related report indicated that Oracle is exploring a significant operational pivot: allowing customers to bring in their own hardware, including server chips, to its cloud data centers. This news came as the company's share price fell following the delay reports. For developers and cloud providers, this "bring your own chip" model represents a pragmatic, high-level strategy to manage escalating capital expenditure (CapEx) and supply chain bottlenecks, particularly for high-demand GPUs. By shifting some hardware procurement responsibility to the tenant, Oracle aims to accelerate deployment timelines and reduce its financial burden. This move could reshape traditional cloud contracts and signals the extreme measures hyperscalers are taking to secure compute capacity amidst unprecedented demand. Fermi America shares plunge as anchor tenant exits ‘Project Matador’ In a major blow to a marquee project, Fermi America's  share price dropped significantly  following the announcement that a prospective anchor tenant terminated a $150 million construction funding agreement for Project Matador , an 11GW data center campus in Texas. The stock price fell by about 33% on the news. The tenant’s exit occurred after the agreement’s exclusivity period expired, with no funds having been drawn. This event is a severe wake-up call for developers relying on anchor tenant funding to de-risk and advance massive, multi-gigawatt power and data center complexes. It highlights the inherent volatility and financial fragility  of projects built on speculative, forward-looking commitments in the highly competitive AI infrastructure market. For Fermi, the immediate challenge is to manage investor fallout—which has already prompted an investigation by a shareholders rights firm—while continuing lease negotiations and attempting to meet ambitious construction schedules for the complex. Madison, WI advances one-year data center moratorium Local resistance to data center expansion continues to build momentum, with Madison, Wisconsin , advancing a one-year moratorium  on zoning permits for new facilities. This move makes Madison one of the largest U.S. cities to temporarily halt such development. The moratorium is necessitated by the city's lack of a defined 'data center' use in its current zoning code and is driven by concerns over potential strain on local energy and water resources. From a developer’s standpoint, this action reinforces the trend of local governments using regulatory pauses to reassess the impact of power- and water-intensive AI facilities. The moratorium effectively forces developers to pause all new site scouting and permitting in the area until the city completes a comprehensive zoning overhaul. This emphasizes that successful development now requires significant and proactive community engagement to demonstrate that proposed facilities are multi-story, use closed-loop cooling, and align with the community’s vision for high-value, sustainable land use, especially in dense urban environments. Schneider Electric’s Motivair launches new liquid cooling CDUs In response to the extreme thermal demands of AI and High-Performance Computing (HPC) workloads, Schneider Electric’s Motivair  has announced a new range of Coolant Distribution Units (CDUs)  engineered specifically for optimized liquid cooling installation. These new models are purpose-built for installation in utility corridors, offering data center operators greater flexibility and integration options for high-density environments. For data center design and engineering teams, these new CDUs—the MCDU-45 and MCDU-55—provide wider cooling capacities and support a broader range of chilled water temperatures. This enhanced flexibility is essential for adapting cooling strategies to diverse deployments, including hyperscale, colocation, and Edge sites, and for improving Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) by enabling heat rejection systems to unlock energy efficiency. The product launch signals the ongoing race to deliver end-to-end liquid cooling solutions that can seamlessly scale with the ever-increasing power density of AI hardware. Data & Infrastructure Solutions for Data Center Developers Discover how we address critical challenges like power availability and project siting, and explore our range of available solutions. Book a demo  with our dedicated team.LandGate provides tailored solutions for data center developers .  You can also visit our library of  data center resources .