Recently, OpenAI submitted a comment letter to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) of the United States regarding "Enhancing the Growth, Resilience, and Security of Data Centers," expressing its commitment to the nation's data infrastructure.
OpenAI pointed out that the U.S.'s global leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) is closely linked to the construction of broadband infrastructure such as fiber optic and coaxial cables decades ago. The Telecommunications Act of 1996, supported by both parties, further strengthened this infrastructure, establishing its national strategic importance.
OpenAI believes that the potential of artificial intelligence is akin to the electric revolution, capable of driving the reindustrialization of the U.S., enhancing global competitiveness, and bringing long-term positive impacts to national, state, and household finances. By investing in the AI sector, the U.S. can not only create tens of thousands of jobs but also achieve significant GDP growth, modernize energy policies, particularly the use of nuclear energy, establish advanced semiconductor manufacturing networks, and revitalize local economies across the country.
According to recent collaborative research between OpenAI and external experts, constructing a 5GW data center could support approximately 40,000 jobs, including construction and maintenance, food and retail sectors, and contribute between $17 to $20 billion to the GDP of relevant states. This figure underscores the importance of policymakers in data center construction.
In this comment letter, OpenAI also emphasized the urgency of global infrastructure investment, with approximately $175 billion in global infrastructure funds awaiting investment. If these funds do not flow into U.S.-led global infrastructure projects, they are likely to flow into projects led by China. OpenAI believes that investing in projects that help disseminate AI technology will have a positive impact on society.
OpenAI calls on policymakers to take practical measures to advance the growth, resilience, and security of AI infrastructure to ensure the U.S. continues to lead in global competition in the future.
Key Points:
🌐 OpenAI highlights that the U.S.'s AI leadership is closely related to early infrastructure investments.
🏗️ Constructing a 5GW data center could create about 40,000 jobs and contribute $17 to $20 billion to state GDP.
💰 There is approximately $175 billion in global infrastructure funds awaiting investment, urgently needed for projects supporting U.S. AI development.