OpenAI is setting the stage for a new chapter in the U.S. AI landscape with an ambitious proposal aimed at strengthening the country’s position in the global race for artificial intelligence dominance. In a document obtained by CNBC, the company outlines its vision for a robust U.S. AI infrastructure, designed to foster innovation, expand data center capabilities, and develop AI-driven economic zones. This blueprint, which OpenAI is presenting in Washington, D.C., reflects the company’s strategy to build AI resilience and establish a competitive edge over China’s rapidly advancing AI initiatives.

At the heart of OpenAI’s proposal is the creation of AI economic zones—regions supported by both state and federal governments. These zones would streamline the permitting process for AI infrastructure projects, incentivize private investment, and focus on sustainability through renewable energy projects, including solar and wind farms. OpenAI envisions using idle nuclear reactors and leveraging the U.S. Navy’s expertise in small modular reactors (SMRs) to power these zones, ultimately making them a cornerstone of the nation’s energy and AI development strategy.

OpenAI’s vision for the future is far-reaching, with the company asserting that AI is as foundational to society as electricity. They argue that substantial investments in AI infrastructure could lead to job creation, GDP growth, and the establishment of new industries, including chip manufacturing and advanced data centers. Additionally, OpenAI projects billions of dollars in investments from global funds, which would further fuel the development of AI technologies.

As part of the plan, OpenAI also envisions a North American AI alliance, similar to the Gulf Cooperation Council, which could include Western countries like the U.S., Canada, and the European Union. This alliance would work together to develop AI capabilities and counterbalance China’s growing influence in the field. China’s significant investment in AI has been underscored by the country’s approval of 20 nuclear reactors over the past two years, with 11 more planned for next year. In comparison, OpenAI’s blueprint argues, the U.S. must accelerate its efforts to remain competitive.

One key aspect of the proposal is the emphasis on utilizing underdeveloped regions of the U.S., particularly the Midwest and Southwest, for AI infrastructure development. These areas, which have been less economically developed in the digital age, are seen as ideal locations for new energy projects, data centers, and AI research hubs. The Midwest’s agricultural data, for example, could serve as the foundation for specialized agricultural AI models, helping local communities while positioning them as key players in the emerging agricultural AI sector.

The document also includes a proposal for a National Transmission Highway Act, designed to modernize U.S. energy infrastructure and facilitate the delivery of power to AI data centers across the country. OpenAI argues that this infrastructure overhaul is necessary to meet the energy demands of the AI industry, which is expected to require 50 gigawatts of power by 2030 to stay competitive with China.

OpenAI’s vision for the U.S. AI sector is bold, with the company positioning AI as a technology that will drive economic and technological growth across the nation. By encouraging public-private partnerships and driving forward an ambitious infrastructure agenda, OpenAI hopes to create a sustainable and competitive AI ecosystem that can lead the world in innovation and economic growth.

CNBC