Applied Digital operates data centers in state
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Data centers are a rapidly growing trend, and North Dakota has some of its own.
Nick Phillips, executive vice president of external affairs, said the Applied Digital Company owns a few of the data centers in the state.
One hurdle for the development of data centers is the amount of water it takes to maintain them. This water is used to cool down the equipment.
Phillips said the Applied Digital data centers use around 42,000 gallons, including water for the facility bathrooms and sinks. This is almost as much as seven households each year.
The company uses a loop cooling system instead of an evaporate cooling system and uses 0.18% as much water as evaporation cooling.
Applied Digital has four campuses in North Dakota. The opening of AI data centers in North Dakota also is to bring new jobs. The company currently has more than 250 full time on-site jobs. By the time construction is completed, the corporation expects to have 800 open positions.
The corporation also works through large-scale purchases, improving the electrical grid and stabilizing the electric system. The company has generated an estimated $45 million in combined savings for Montana Dakota Utility customers since 2023.
Another aspect of the data center is its effect on taxes, and Phillips estimates $23.7 million will be paid for the four facilities in property taxes.
The Ellendale center in Dickey County is estimated to pay $12.47 million in taxes by 2028. The proposed Oliver County project is expected to pay $3.43 million. The center in Fried Township in Stutsman county is expected to pay $28,300, and the Harwood facility is expected to pay $5.7 million.
Applied Digital also participates in its communities. The company gives grant money to organizations such as police, firefighter and medical staff. In 2026, the Jamestown area received $45,326, the Ellendale area received $488,344, Harwood received $68,425 and N.D. statewide received $17,500. The company also prioritizes local hires, Phillips said.
Phillips said the corporation is “glad to be in North Dakota.”