Crusoe Energy to Build AI-Optimized Data Center in Springfield, Ohio, Securing Tax Incentives
December 16, 2025
The strategic expansion of AI infrastructure into new markets is a key trend as demand for computational power surges. Crusoe Energy Systems is advancing this trend with a new project in Springfield, Ohio, highlighting how regions are competing to attract high-tech investments that promise skilled employment and economic growth.
According to an announcement from the state of Ohio, Crusoe Energy Systems is planning to establish a new data center facility in Springfield. The Ohio Tax Credit Authority has approved a significant incentive for the project: a 50%, 10-year Data Center Sales Tax Exemption. This facility is specifically designed to support next-generation artificial intelligence workloads. The company describes its operations as providing "AI-optimized cloud infrastructure intended to deliver computing for next-generation AI workloads, offering GPU infrastructure, intelligent orchestration, and clean energy-powered data centers."
The project is expected to create 20 full-time positions, generating an estimated $1.5 million in annual payroll for the local economy. This development was part of a broader slate of 17 economic projects reviewed by the Tax Credit Authority, which collectively are projected to create 2,347 new jobs, retain 8,592 existing positions, and spur over $1.1 billion in investments across Ohio, with more than $148 million in new payroll.
The Crusoe center marks the third major AI-related company to announce plans for Springfield in the near future, joining The Constant Company LLC's Vultr product and the 5C Data Center planned for the LexisNexis site. To further encourage development, Springfield city commissioners have previously approved a 15-year, 100% Enterprise Zone property tax abatement for the area surrounding the 5C site, effective from 2028 to 2042. These zones offer businesses tax exemptions on eligible new investments.
Crusoe Energy did not respond to a request for comment prior to publication. The company's move into Springfield signifies the growing geographic diversification of AI and data center infrastructure, bringing specialized tech jobs and investment to regions beyond traditional hubs.
Source: springfieldnewssun
