Next-Generation Hyperscale Data Centers

Описание: The U.S. Department of Energy recently named the former Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant one of four federal sites advancing plans for AI-focused data centers paired with new clean-energy infrastructure—placing Kentucky in the spotlight of a national conversation on computing infrastructure. This panel explores the many factors that converge with next-gen computing to build these facilities here in Kentucky. Many of the speakers have been involved in community conversations about data centers proposed and under development.

Others are part of a new statewide research consortium proposing to address data center siting through a simulation-driven “digital twin” that integrates energy systems, environmental fit, water and cooling, land use, workforce pipelines, and community acceptance. Attendees will hear pragmatic strategies for scaling power and cooling, aligning with utility planning, deploying AI for infrastructure management, and earning durable local support.

Moderator: Dr. Ted Smith, Director of the Center for Healthy Air, Water and Soil, UofL
Dr. Mahendra Sunkara, Professor- Speed School of Engineering, UofL
Dr. Natasha DeJarnett, Assistant Professor of Medicine, UofL
Byron Gary, Program Attorney, KY Resources Council