New Kentucky data center will use as much power as 800,000 homes

A new data center proposal is moving forward in northeastern Kentucky.

1 minute read

May 29, 2026, 7:00 AM PDT

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Cluster of power poles and lines in a flat, rural area.

Data centers' significant demand for energy is causing backlash in many host communities. | Balodann / Shutterstock

A bitcoin mining company is planning a new data center in northeastern Kentucky, reports Lily Burris for Louisville Public Media.

According to Burris, "TeraWulf says the Muskie Data Campus will eventually need more than one gigawatt of electricity, or enough to support more than 800,000 average homes for an entire year. The bitcoin mining company expects to need its first 500 megawatts by the second half of 2028 and the rest in 2030."

The site in question is part of the Northeast Kentucky Economic Development Authority, a regional group that represents five local counties. The group plans to hold public meetings to inform communities about the project and answer questions, but has not announced a specific timeline for the meetings. "Kentucky Power plans to build additional infrastructure in the area to support the project, according to TeraWulf's press release."

Thursday, May 28, 2026 in Louisville Public Media

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