Previously Published in The Messenger
By Cait Crudden
Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy (R-Nesconset) has formally written to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to advocate for Brookhaven National Laboratory as a premier site for the Department’s proposed new AI data center infrastructure. In a letter addressed to the Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright (R-CO), Kennedy outlined a compelling case for why Brookhaven should be chosen in response to the DOE’s recently published Request for Information (RFI) on April 7, 2025.
Kennedy’s letter highlights the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across professional, scientific, and consumer sectors and underscores the importance of strategic planning as the DOE seeks to identify appropriate locations for this critical infrastructure.
“As AI continues to revolutionize industries and redefine how we interact with technology, it’s crucial that we invest in the right environments to foster growth, security, and innovation,” Kennedy said. “Brookhaven National Laboratory, with its expansive facilities, proven track record of scientific excellence, and strong academic partnerships, is uniquely positioned to host this infrastructure. Our willingness to implement AI solutions would be a recurring benefit to taxpayers and utilized at every level of government.”
Kennedy emphasized several key strengths that make Brookhaven stand out among the 16 sites under DOE consideration.
‘Size and Space’: Brookhaven’s 5,000-acre campus offers ample space for the anticipated 90-acre footprint required for the AI data center, while ensuring sufficient distance from residential areas to mitigate potential community disruptions.
‘Scientific Collaboration’: Brookhaven maintains a long-standing partnership with Stony Brook University, a nationally recognized research institution. Their joint initiatives, including the Joint Photon Sciences Institute (JPSI) and the LiSIE Program through the Center for Biotechnology, reflect a deep commitment to innovation and scientific advancement.
‘State Investment in AI’: Kennedy noted the recent $1.4 million investment by New York State to establish a new Department of Technology, AI, and Society at Stony Brook University. This is part of a broader $5 million statewide investment to boost AI-focused education and research programs at SUNY institutions.
According to Kennedy, this investment strengthens the region’s credentials as a future hub for AI development.
“The synergy between Brookhaven National Laboratory and Stony Brook University is an exceptional advantage that few other sites can offer. Suffolk County has the ability to bring in talented professionals from all over,” Kennedy stated. “The region’s commitment to advancing AI technologies is not just theoretical; it’s already happening, and this investment is only the beginning.”
Kennedy’s letter also framed the selection of Brookhaven as a strategic decision aligned with the broader goals of the DOE’s AI initiative, including fostering public-private-academic partnerships, promoting cutting-edge research, and building sustainable energy solutions to support data center operations.
“The innovation ecosystem already thriving here in Suffolk County, combined with our community’s support for scientific endeavors, makes Brookhaven an optimal site for this groundbreaking project,” Kennedy added.
Brookhaven National Laboratory has a rich history of advancing scientific knowledge, including major contributions to physics, energy research, and environmental science. Hosting a national AI data center would represent a natural next step in the laboratory’s continued leadership at the forefront of technological advancement.
Kennedy closed his letter by offering the DOE any additional information needed and extended his full support for bringing the project to Suffolk County. He also made himself available for further discussions, signaling the County’s readiness to assist in the process.
The DOE’s initiative to identify sites for AI infrastructure reflects the growing recognition that dedicated, sustainable, and secure facilities are necessary to power the next wave of AI technologies, which will likely shape the nation’s economy, security, and technological leadership for decades to come.
As the DOE reviews proposals and submissions from across the nation, Suffolk County residents and officials will be watching closely, hopeful that Brookhaven’s strengths will be recognized and that Suffolk will soon become home to a cornerstone of America’s AI future.