Argentina and OpenAI Collaborate on AI Data Center Project

Argentina is set to host Latin America's first Stargate project, a large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) data center, through a collaboration between OpenAI and Sur Energy. The initiative aims to position Argentina as a regional and global leader in AI, driving economic growth and expanding opportunities across the country.

The project, named Stargate Argentina, will be located in the southern Patagonia region and is expected to have a capacity of up to 500 megawatts. This development is part of OpenAI's broader strategy to expand its AI infrastructure globally, with similar projects underway in the United States, United Kingdom, Norway, South Korea, and Germany.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, "This milestone is about more than just infrastructure, it's about putting AI into the hands of more people across Argentina. We're excited to work with Argentina as it builds toward becoming an AI hub for all of Latin America. President Milei's vision for how AI can drive Argentina's growth and creativity is unmistakable and strong. Stargate Argentina will help bring that vision to life."

Emiliano Kargieman, partner of Sur Energy, highlighted the project's potential impact: "The Stargate Argentina project represents a historic opportunity for the country. It combines our unique renewable energy potential with the development of critical infrastructure for artificial intelligence on a global scale. This alliance turns Argentina into a relevant player in the world's new digital and energy map, creating quality jobs, attracting international investment, and demonstrating that innovation and energy can be complementary engines of sustainable development."

The collaboration builds on discussions between President Javier Milei, Argentine government officials, and an OpenAI delegation led by Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane. OpenAI and Sur Energy have signed a Letter of Intent to explore the development of this data center, with Sur Energy leading the formation of a consortium, including partnering with a cloud infrastructure developer. The project is expected to be powered by clean energy sources, aligning with Argentina's renewable energy potential.

This initiative is part of OpenAI's 'OpenAI for Countries' program, which aims to drive AI adoption across nations, starting within government institutions. The program seeks to assist Argentine government employees, as well as administration and research institutions, in accelerating their daily work, ultimately saving costs while delivering better services to Argentine citizens.

The Stargate Argentina project is anticipated to create quality jobs, attract international investment, and position Argentina as a significant player in the global digital and energy landscape. Construction is expected to begin next year, with the first 100MW phase launching in 2027.