On July 1, 2026, Applied Digital Inc. (NASDAQ: APLD) proudly announced the completion of Phase 1 of Building 2 at its Polaris Forge 1 campus, achieving "Ready for Service" status. This significant milestone brings an additional 75 megawatts (MW) of operational artificial intelligence (AI) capacity, increasing the total capacity at the site to an impressive 175 MW. The company’s commitment to delivering state-of-the-art data centers remains evident as it continues to expand its AI Factory Campus.

2. Enhancing AI Infrastructure Capacity

The completion of Building 2 is a crucial step in the ongoing development of Polaris Forge 1, which is specifically designed to support high-density AI and high-performance computing workloads. Once fully operational, the campus is contracted to deliver a total of 400 MW of critical IT load through long-term lease agreements.

Wes Cummins, Chairman and CEO of Applied Digital, highlighted the importance of this achievement, stating, “Delivering this phase on time underscores the strength of our execution model.” He further emphasized the collaborative effort across various teams, including construction, engineering, and operations, which allowed the company to meet its timeline effectively.

3. A Proven Execution Model

Applied Digital’s success at Polaris Forge 1 can be attributed to its innovative AI Factory franchise model. This model emphasizes a repeatable framework that leverages centralized expertise and dedicated site-level execution teams. Cummins noted that this method not only secures power but also converts it into live operational AI capacity, which distinguishes the company in a competitive landscape.

The completion of the first 100 MW building at Polaris Forge 1 sets a precedent for the efficient delivery of large-scale AI infrastructure. The company's consistent ability to align infrastructure deployment with customer timelines is becoming increasingly vital as demand for AI services surges.

4. Commitment to Community and Sustainability

Located in Ellendale, North Dakota, Polaris Forge 1 has been in operation since 2021 and has fostered strong relationships with local leaders and stakeholders. As the campus expands, Applied Digital remains committed to responsible development and creating long-term value for the community. The company’s focus on local partnerships and sustainable practices aligns with its mission to drive economic opportunities in underserved areas through its AI Factory model.

5. Conclusion

Applied Digital’s latest achievement at Polaris Forge 1 signals a strong commitment to meeting the growing demands of the AI industry. With 175 MW of operational capacity now live, the company is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation in the data center space. As the need for reliable and scalable AI infrastructure intensifies, Applied Digital’s strategic execution and community focus will likely play a crucial role in its ongoing success.

As the company looks to the future, its ability to deliver on time and enhance operational capacity will be critical as it navigates the evolving landscape of the technology sector.

Original press release