Nebius x Independence, MO

We are evaluating a site along Rte. 78 and Little Blue Parkway for a multi-building data center campus with a total capacity of up to 1.2 GW. The initial phase would represent a multi-billion-dollar investment and create hundreds of skilled construction jobs, along with approximately 130 permanent high-tech positions once fully built.

The project would connect to Independence Power & Light (IPL), the city’s municipally owned utility. The city has already approved phase one of a new power plant to add local generation, and a planned phase two would directly support this project. With new generation coming online, IPL’s municipal structure, and our commitment to covering our full power needs, the project would not impact residential rates.

In fact, city leaders note that adding a large industrial customer to IPL’s largely residential customer base could help spread fixed system costs across more energy use, easing pressure on rates for existing customers.

We are planning to use a closed-loop or other similarly low-consumption cooling systems, consistent with the approach used at our other facilities. While final numbers will depend on detailed engineering, our intent is to operate with very low ongoing consumptive water use similar to that of a restaurant or office building.

Nebius has submitted a Chapter 100 application, which is very typical for data center and advanced manufacturing projects of this scale in Missouri. We’re actively working with City Staff, council, Independence School District and Ft. Osage School Districts, and Mid-Continent Library on the process, as well as ensuring our project delivers significant co-benefits for the community.

Construction is expected to take place in phases and we anticipate creating hundreds of highly skilled construction jobs during the buildout. We are committed to working closely with local stakeholders to evaluate opportunities for local building trades labor and contracting.

As planning moves forward, we will continue to collaborate with the community on project decisions and timelines.

Nebius is committed to being a responsible, long-term partner in the communities where we operate. We have begun meeting with city staff, council members, the Independence Chamber, MCC, and local school districts to share our vision for Independence and discuss how we can be a strong community partner. In those conversations, we presented an initial community benefits plan focused on education and community well-being.

We’re also establishing a Community Engagement Panel comprised of local residents, businesses and leaders. The panel will meet regularly and serve as an important avenue of communication for Nebius to share project updates and information, and in return, receive feedback from its community partners and representatives.

Nebius is committed to community engagement, with a focus on education and overall well-being in Independence. We believe that investing in training is essential to preparing residents for emerging careers and fostering innovation. As a global leader in artificial intelligence, Nebius brings access to advanced computing infrastructure and industry thought leaders, helping Independence unlock new opportunities for growth.

We are dedicated to working closely with stakeholders throughout the planning, construction, and operation of our planned Independence facility. To ensure transparency and maintain open communication, we have planned multiple touchpoints, including public hearings, open houses, and briefings with key leaders, to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to partnership and responsible development.