OpenAI and SoftBank have jointly invested $1 billion in SB Energy, deepening their commitment to building the massive energy backbone required to support next-generation artificial intelligence infrastructure. The investment comes as the Stargate project—an ambitious plan to scale data centers and AI compute capacity—enters a critical expansion phase.

Why SB Energy Matters to the Stargate Vision

SB Energy, a renewable power platform backed by SoftBank, plays a key role in supplying large-scale, low-carbon electricity for energy-hungry AI data centers. As AI models grow larger and more complex, their power requirements have surged, making reliable and sustainable energy sources a strategic priority for AI developers and cloud operators.

Stargate Project Aims to Power the Future of AI

The Stargate initiative is designed to create a globally distributed network of high-performance data centers optimized for advanced AI workloads. These facilities require uninterrupted power, advanced cooling systems, and grid-scale energy coordination—areas where SB Energy’s solar and battery storage assets are expected to provide a competitive edge.

SoftBank and OpenAI Deepen Strategic Alignment

For SoftBank, the investment reinforces its broader strategy of backing foundational technologies that shape future digital economies. OpenAI’s participation highlights a growing trend where AI developers move beyond software and invest directly in physical infrastructure, ensuring long-term control over compute availability and energy costs.

Renewable Energy Takes Center Stage in AI Growth

The deal also reflects increasing pressure on the AI industry to address environmental concerns. By anchoring its expansion to renewable energy, the Stargate project aims to reduce carbon emissions while scaling AI capabilities. Analysts see this as a signal that sustainability is becoming inseparable from AI competitiveness.

What Comes Next

With fresh capital secured, SB Energy is expected to accelerate solar and battery deployments tied to Stargate data centers in multiple regions. Industry watchers believe similar investments could follow as AI companies race to secure power, land, and hardware in an increasingly competitive global market.