Overview
- OpenAI and Sur Energy signed a letter of intent for a Patagonia-based AI data-center project targeting up to 500 MW, but OpenAI did not confirm the government’s headline figure of up to $25 billion.
- Sur Energy is positioned as project lead and is forming a consortium, with reported agreements including a Genneia MoU for renewable power and involvement from Central Puerto.
- Neuquén is the leading candidate for the facility, with Tratayén and Arroyito under evaluation, and technical factors such as power, fiber connectivity and water access still being assessed.
- The initiative is presented under Argentina’s RIGI investment regime, and OpenAI says it will also work with authorities through its OpenAI for Countries program for public-sector and education use.
- Local experts and outlets question feasibility, employment impact and environmental demands, and they note unresolved governance, financing and timing alongside politically charged presentation.