Harwood, N.D. – An artificial intelligence data center builder is announcing a planned expansion of their footprint in North Dakota with what it calls a new ‘AI Factory’ near Harwood.
According to a press release from Applied Digital Corporation, crews will break ground on the ‘Polaris Forge 2’ in September.
It’s said to be a 280-megawatt facility that the company says “further advances Applied Digital’s rapid growth and reinforces North Dakota’s position as one of the most strategically important destinations for AI infrastructure in the United States.”
The project is expected to build off the existing ‘Polaris Forge 1’ facility in Ellendale.
As far as the timing of the campus opening, the company expects “initial capacity” in 2026 and reaching full capacity in early 2027.
AI developers have looked at North Dakota as a home for future data centers based on factors such as land, energy and climate.
“We believe Polaris Forge 2 represents the next stage in Applied Digital’s rapid growth and our position as a leader in delivering high-performance AI infrastructure,” said Wes Cummins, CEO of Applied Digital in the release.
“The demand for AI capacity continues to accelerate, and North Dakota continues to be one of the most strategic locations in the country to meet that need.”
The plan includes two facilities that will span more than 900 acres, and will be powered by Cass County Electric Cooperative.
Along with long-term contractors, the Harwood site is projected to employ more than 200 full-time workers.
