Applied Digital to Invest $3 Billion in New AI Data Center Near Fargo, North Dakota

Applied Digital Unveils Ambitious $3 Billion AI Data Center Project in Harwood, North Dakota

FARGO, ND — In a significant boost for the local economy, Applied Digital announced plans on Monday to construct a groundbreaking $3 billion data center in Harwood, just north of Fargo. Dubbed Polaris Forge 2, the facility will be a state-of-the-art, 280-megawatt artificial intelligence computing center.

Set to break ground in September, the project will encompass two facilities with ample room for future expansion. Applied Digital has secured over 900 acres for its campus and partnered with Cass County Electric Cooperative to ensure a reliable power supply. The new data center is projected to create more than 200 full-time jobs, along with numerous long-term contractor positions.

Wes Cummins, CEO of Applied Digital, emphasized the strategic advantages of North Dakota in a news 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,” he stated.

Harwood, a small town with a population of around 800, is poised to benefit significantly from this investment. Mayor Blake Hankey expressed pride in the development, stating, “Applied Digital’s investment reflects confidence in our people and our potential.”

The company has already made strides in Ellendale, where it operates Polaris Forge 1 and has invested in housing and infrastructure to support its workforce. Governor Kelly Armstrong praised Applied Digital’s commitment to community development, noting, “North Dakota wins when companies like Applied Digital choose to be more than an employer.”

Data centers like Polaris Forge 2 serve as vital hubs for tech companies, housing extensive networks of computers that provide AI and other services. These facilities require substantial energy, which will be supplied by Cass County Electric Cooperative, a member of Minnkota Power Cooperative.

Mac McLennan, president and CEO of Minnkota Power Cooperative, assured that the project will be integrated responsibly into the community, stating, “Our focus is on making sure it is integrated in a way that strengthens our communities and supports reliable power.”

Nick Phillips, executive vice president of Applied Digital, highlighted the benefits of data centers for local economies, noting their role in creating skilled jobs and enhancing the tax base. Speaking at an AI summit in Fargo, he reiterated the importance of such developments for the region.

U.S. Rep. Julie Fedorchak also underscored the significance of North Dakota’s energy resources in supporting national security and fostering the growth of the tech industry domestically. “Where I see incredible opportunity for North Dakota is using that resource to help provide the power to develop this incredible industry here in America, not over in India and China,” she remarked.

As the state prepares for this transformative project, the community of Harwood and the broader region eagerly anticipates the economic opportunities and advancements that Polaris Forge 2 will bring.

For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to the North Dakota Monitor.