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Nebius, a European AI data infrastructure company, has acquired an industrial park in Independence, Kansas, to build a $6.6 billion data center, with construction expected to start in summer 2026 pending city approval. The project will span 400 acres, include at least 10 buildings, and is anticipated to take 3 to 5 years, with the first buildings opening in 2028.

The facility aims to generate tens of millions in tax revenue for local governments and create 125 full-time jobs. Nebius plans to establish a new power plant at the former Blue Valley Power Plant site, intending to generate up to 1,100 megawatts of energy by December 2029.

The center will consume significant water resources but is designed to avoid exceeding local water usage thresholds. City officials have raised concerns about potential environmental impacts, including noise and light pollution, as well as economic promises from the project.