Core Scientific to invest $135 million to bring data center to Auburn

February 23, 2025 - AUBURN, AL – Core Scientific announced that it plans to invest $135 million to bring it's data center to Auburn.

Economic developer Dr. Nicole J. Wadsworth told the Alabama Gazette, "Data centers are crucial to Alabama's economy and technological infrastructure and support industries such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government services. Our state's strategic location, affordable energy, and business-friendly policies have attracted major data center investments, which foster job creation and economic growth."

Today's companies collect more data about their customers than ever before necessitating offsite storage capacity.

"Alabama's growing tech sector and emphasis on cybersecurity make these facilities essential for secure data storage, cloud computing, and digital innovation," Dr. Jones Wadsworth explained. "With increasing demand for reliable internet and AI-driven applications, data centers play a vital role in ensuring connectivity and efficiency across our state."

The company plans to invest $135 million in the existing AUBix data center on West Samford Avenue. Eventually that total investment is expected to reach $400 million.

"Alabama has long been a pro-business state, and Core Scientific's investment in Auburn is a testament to our ability to attract cutting-edge technology companies," Governor Kay Ivey said in a statement. "We are excited to support their growth and look forward to the economic benefits this project will bring to our state."

The Auburn data center will initially have a capacity of 16 megawatts with further expansion possible. The company plans to retain AUBix's 11 full-time employees and has plans to increase that to a minimum of 20 full-time employees.

Adam Sullivan is the CEO of Core Scientific.

"Auburn represents an exciting new chapter for Core Scientific as we establish our presence in Alabama," said CEO Sullivan. "This facility is expected to play a key role in our high-performance computing strategy, and we are grateful for the strong partnership and support from local and state leaders, including City of Auburn officials. We look forward to contributing to Auburn's growing technology sector and strengthening the regional economy."

Core Scientific already has nine operational data centers throughout the U.S. They also have an additional facility under development in Oklahoma.

Ellen McNair is the Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.

"Core Scientific's expansion into Alabama highlights the state's growing prominence in the technology and digital infrastructure sector," said Secretary McNair. "This investment not only strengthens our state's economy but also positions Alabama as a key player in the future of high-performance computing."

Auburn Mayor Ron Anders welcomes the additional business.

"We appreciate Core Scientific establishing a new operation here in Auburn as part of its national data center network," Mayor Anders said. "The company's investment is evidence of the success of our recruitment of high-tech industries in collaboration with Auburn University. Our projections show that Core Scientific's $400 million investment will result in a local tax generation of $1.5 million per year, supporting our schools and public services."