State proposes 50-year lease for gas-powered data center near Deadhorse

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through June 15 on a proposed 50-year lease to STAK Energy Corporation for a 715-acre commercial energy facility 26 miles south of Deadhorse along the Dalton Highway.

The project would include modular high-performance computing units, on-site natural gas power generation designed to produce 1-3 gigawatts, operations buildings, fiber optic links, and supporting utilities. Construction is scheduled to begin in summer 2026, with initial operations by late 2028.

The Division of Oil and Gas issued a preliminary decision on May 12 for the lease, which would authorize industrial development on state lands in the Arctic region. That decision follows Alaska News reporting in May on plans for a natural gas-powered cryptocurrency mining facility on the North Slope. The project would require approximately 7.1 million cubic yards of gravel fill and employ up to 1,500 workers during construction, with 60 permanent positions during operations.

No expressions of competitive interest were received during the solicitation period for the lease, which ran from December 8, 2025, through January 8, 2026. The entry authorization requires STAK to submit a performance guaranty and proof of insurance to ensure financial responsibility for site cleanup and restoration, with cleanup and restoration obligations applying throughout the lease term.

Only people who submit written comments during this period will have standing to appeal the division's final decision. The lease would include both base rental and additional payments based on annual gross receipts.

Comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. Alaska Daylight Time on June 15, 2026. Submit written comments or request additional information from the Division of Oil and Gas Permitting Section, 550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1100, Anchorage, AK 99501, by phone at 907-269-8800, or by email at [email protected].