The Biden administration has unveiled a new directive aimed at addressing the growing energy demands of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. By leveraging federal lands managed by the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy, the order seeks to establish large-scale AI data centers and renewable energy facilities, ensuring the U.S. remains competitive in AI innovation.

President Biden described the initiative as a step toward building a robust AI infrastructure that aligns with national priorities like economic growth, clean energy, and security. The executive order also stipulates that companies utilizing these federal lands must contribute to domestic semiconductor purchases, a measure designed to bolster the U.S. chip manufacturing sector, which has received over $30 billion in federal investment.

White House technology adviser Tarun Chhabra emphasized the critical need for significant power and computational resources to support frontier AI models—some of the most advanced systems currently in development. By 2028, top AI developers are expected to require data centers with energy capacities reaching five gigawatts.

To further reinforce U.S. leadership in AI, the Commerce Department plans to tighten restrictions on exporting AI chips and technology, particularly to adversarial nations. Chhabra highlighted the importance of maintaining secure AI infrastructure within the country, both for economic and national security purposes.

The administration is also working to streamline permitting processes, improve grid connections, and advance transmission development around federal sites. These measures are intended to expedite the creation of infrastructure needed to support the rapidly evolving AI industry.

Chhabra noted the dual-edged nature of AI, with potential applications ranging from defense to risks involving biological or cyber threats. The directive is designed to ensure that U.S.-based AI systems remain securely housed and effectively utilized for advancing technology in safe and controlled environments.