Sharon AI and New Era Helium have initiated plans to develop a 250-megawatt net-zero energy data center in Ector County, Texas.
The companies have signed a non-binding letter of intent with GROW Odessa, an economic development corporation, to acquire a 200-acre site for the project.
The proposed data center will be powered by natural gas supplied by New Era Helium, with plans to implement carbon capture utilization and storage technologies to achieve net-zero emissions.
The site is strategically located near essential infrastructure, including fiber optic networks, natural gas transmission lines, and CO₂ pipeline systems, facilitating the integration of CCUS and enhanced oil recovery processes.
The joint venture, Texas Critical Data Centers LLC, aims to commence the initial phase of the project by late 2026, following the completion of due diligence and definitive agreements within the next ninety days.
E. Will Gray II, CEO of New Era Helium, expressed optimism about the project, highlighting the importance of access to affordable and reliable power in attracting top-tier partners.
Wolf Schubert, CEO of Sharon AI, emphasized the significance of developing large-scale data center infrastructure in the U.S., noting the considerable energy infrastructure experience that New Era Helium brings to the joint venture.
Russell Tippin, President of GROW Odessa, welcomed the collaboration, stating that Ector County and the Odessa area are well-suited for the net-zero energy data center project.
This development aligns with the growing trend of integrating sustainable practices in high-performance computing infrastructure, reflecting a broader industry shift towards environmentally responsible operations.
The project is expected to create significant job opportunities and contribute to the local economy, reinforcing the region’s position as a hub for innovative energy and technology initiatives.
As the demand for AI and high-performance computing continues to rise, the establishment of such data centers is crucial in supporting the computational needs of various industries, from research and development to real-time data processing.
The collaboration between Sharon AI and New Era Helium exemplifies a strategic approach to meeting these demands while adhering to environmental sustainability goals, setting a precedent for future projects in the sector.
By leveraging existing infrastructure and natural resources, the partnership aims to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that balances technological advancement with ecological responsibility.
The integration of CCUS technology not only mitigates the environmental impact of natural gas consumption but also enhances oil recovery, demonstrating a multifaceted approach to resource utilization.
This initiative reflects a commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning Ector County as a leader in the evolution of data center operations and energy management.
The successful execution of this project could serve as a model for similar endeavors worldwide, showcasing the potential of collaborative efforts in achieving net-zero energy goals in the technology sector.
As the project progresses, stakeholders and industry observers will be keenly watching its development, anticipating the potential benefits and challenges associated with such an ambitious undertaking.
