WHEELING, W.Va. — Two separate technology projects—one in Wheeling and another proposed for Belmont County—are drawing attention as companies explore expanding artificial intelligence and data infrastructure in the Ohio Valley.
Although both proposals involve AI-related technology, officials say they are separate projects with different goals.
Warwood Manufacturing and Technology Facility
In Wheeling, Silicon Foundation Energy has purchased the former Centre Foundry property in Warwood for approximately $1.5 million.
After questions surfaced online describing the site as a future data center, company officials clarified that the project’s initial phase is expected to focus on manufacturing modular components used to build AI data centers across the country.
The company is also exploring a larger computing and energy technology campus that could eventually include up to 100 megawatts of computing capacity, though officials emphasize that portion remains under consideration and has not been finalized.
The proposal has generated significant public interest, with residents raising questions about potential impacts on traffic, noise, emissions, energy use and environmental concerns. Company representatives are expected to continue meeting with local and state officials as discussions move forward.
Large AI Data Center Proposed in Belmont County
Meanwhile, a separate proposal has emerged in Belmont County.
Commissioners recently learned of plans by EnergiAcres to develop what the company describes as a 2- to 3-gigawatt AI data center campus somewhere within the county.
The project, referred to by the company as “The Real Stargate Ohio,” remains in the planning stages. Company materials indicate the campus could span thousands of acres and target operations beginning in the second quarter of 2029.
At this time, officials have not identified the project’s exact location, and no detailed plans have been publicly released.
Many Questions Remain
While both projects have generated excitement over the possibility of new investment and technology jobs, many key details remain unknown.
Officials have not announced final construction timelines, job estimates, total project costs, environmental impacts, infrastructure requirements or whether either development will receive state or local incentives.
Local leaders say additional information is expected as planning continues and both projects advance through the review process.
