Sharon AI and New Era Helium are embarking on a significant initiative to create a 250MW net-zero energy data center focused on artificial intelligence and high-performance computing in Ector County, Texas. The two companies have signed a non-binding letter of intent with GROW Odessa, an organization dedicated to economic development, to acquire a 200-acre site for this ambitious project.
Sharon AI, known for its expertise in AI and cloud GPU computing, is collaborating with New Era Helium, a publicly traded exploration and production company. Their joint venture aims to establish a scalable and environmentally sustainable data center utilizing Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) alongside other innovative energy transition technologies.
The selected location is notably advantageous, with ready access to essential fiber optic networks, natural gas transmission lines, and COâ‚‚ pipelines, making it ideal for a high-density computing operation.
The plan is to finalize the property acquisition within 90 days, contingent upon due diligence. The project will be developed in phases, with the first phase expected to become operational by late 2026. This phase will also include the development of a natural gas-fired power plant and establishing fiber connectivity solutions. By the second quarter of 2025, the joint venture aims to secure a natural gas supply agreement with New Era Helium to ensure affordable and reliable energy for the data center.
Ector County’s existing infrastructure, particularly in handling COâ‚‚, aligns with the project’s net-zero energy goals. Integrating CCUS technology is anticipated to improve energy efficiency and sustainability, addressing the increasing demands for computing power in AI applications. GROW Odessa, with its history of fostering industrial development, is working with TCDC to create a behind-the-meter data center campus to support these initiatives.
As this project unfolds, key milestones will include securing relevant permissions for the site, finalizing power generation and COâ‚‚ capture technology, appointing technology partners, and engaging with potential customers. Companies within the tech sector, particularly hyperscalers needing extensive computational capabilities, are being considered as potential energy consumers.
CEO Wolf Schubert of Sharon AI underscored the strategic value of this project amid the dynamic growth of AI infrastructure in the U.S. He referenced substantial projects like the Stargate Project, involving major industry players, highlighting the urgent need for specialized AI data centers and increased energy capacity.
Will Gray, CEO of New Era Helium, stressed the importance of the Ector County site and assured stakeholders that the acquisition process is moving forward. He confirmed that planning for construction has already begun, with contractors involved in the data center’s design and implementation.
Russell Tippin, president of GROW Odessa, expressed optimism regarding the collaboration, noting that the Odessa area is well-suited for large-scale sustainable data centers. He emphasized the critical role that partnerships among local economic development organizations, energy companies, and AI infrastructure providers play in fostering innovation and driving economic growth in the region.
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