Why is AWS Pledging US$15bn to an Indiana Data Centre Build?

Amazon has confirmed a US$15bn investment to build new data centre campuses in Northern Indiana, expanding its infrastructure for AI and cloud computing. 

The project will add 2.4GW of capacity and create 1,100 high-skilled jobs, with thousands more supported across the supply chain.

The expansion builds on Amazon Web Services’ (AWS) previous US$11bn commitment in St Joseph County, bringing advanced cloud and AI infrastructure to new sites across the state. 

The new campuses will feature AWS-designed chips, servers and networking systems optimised for performance, reliability and energy efficiency, supporting workloads such as machine learning and next-generation cloud applications.

David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer, says: “Indiana has long been an important partner for Amazon and today we are proud to reaffirm our commitment to long-term investment and growth, underscoring our dedication to fuelling AI innovation while generating meaningful economic impact throughout the state.

“By expanding our advanced cloud infrastructure in Indiana, we are investing in Indiana's technological future through job creation, skills training initiatives and community engagement programmes. 

“We're excited to help power the next wave of technological advancement while delivering tangible benefits that will enhance the lives of Indiana residents for years to come.”

Infrastructure and energy to support growth

The data centre expansion is supported by a new energy agreement between Amazon and the Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO). 

The partnership includes the creation of NIPSCO Generation (GenCo), which will manage infrastructure to supply power to the facilities. 

Amazon will fund the required plants, lines and equipment without passing costs to local residents or businesses.

NIPSCO expects the agreement to generate US$1bn in cost savings for current electric customers over 15 years. 

This surplus will also improve energy reliability during peak demand, such as extreme weather, by increasing total generation capacity beyond Amazon’s own 2.4GW needs.

Vince Parisi, NIPSCO President and COO, says: “This agreement structure with Amazon represents approximately US$1bn in cost savings over 15 years to our existing NIPSCO electric customers while strengthening our regional grid and economic future. 

“By structuring this agreement thoughtfully, we're ensuring our current customers are protected, without increasing their rates, while we expand our capacity to meet growing demands. 

“This project isn't just about powering data centres, it's about powering possibilities for our communities through thousands of new jobs, an expanded tax base and building a skilled workforce in Northern Indiana for long-term growth and prosperity."

Governor Mike Braun adds: “This is a massive win for Hoosier ratepayers. This agreement will ensure a surplus in new energy development that will deliver real savings to Hoosier ratepayers. 

“Amazon’s historic investment shows that Indiana’s business-friendly climate continues to attract world-class employers and drive growth in our state. 

“This project will create more than a thousand jobs while supporting thousands more across the region, further strengthening Indiana’s position in energy dominance and economic leadership.”

Training, education and long-term investment

Amazon is also committing to training the future workforce of the region.

Programmes include data centre technician training, fibre optic fusion splicing workshops and cloud computing pre-apprenticeships.

Ivy Tech has integrated new AWS-certified modules into its curriculum and the Amazon Community Workforce Accelerator continues to offer hands-on training aligned with data centre operations.

Initiatives for schools include We Build it Better, which introduces middle and high school students to practical STEM learning with industry-grade tools. Career awareness programmes are also offered to younger students.

Additional support for educators includes infrastructure donations, curriculum materials and professional training to ensure Indiana’s institutions can develop local talent for cloud and infrastructure careers.

US Representative Rudy Yakym says: “This project will create good-paying jobs for Hoosiers, expand our tax base and strengthen the economic foundation for communities across the state. It also positions Indiana at the forefront of America’s next generation of innovation. 

“As our country races to lead in artificial intelligence and advanced computing, investments like this ensure we are building that future here at home and delivering new opportunities for hardworking Hoosier families.”

Since 2010, Amazon has invested more than US$31.3bn in Indiana, contributing US$29.9bn to state GDP and supporting more than 24,500 direct jobs.

Its Indiana footprint includes data centres, fulfilment sites, renewable energy projects and education partnerships.

With this latest expansion, AWS continues to scale secure, efficient infrastructure while embedding investment in communities and skills.