JERA, Dell and RHAELM plan $15 billion Chiba AI data centre

JERA, Dell and RHAELM have signed a nonbinding memorandum of understanding to develop a standardized model for AI data centres in Japan, starting with a planned facility in Chiba that could draw up to 400 megawatts of power. The companies say operations are intended to begin in phases in 2028, with the site reaching full capacity in 2029. The project is expected to cost more than $15 billion across its phases, according to the companies’ announcements. Apollo is expected to act as RHAELM’s strategic investment and financing partner for the Chiba development. The memorandum sets out plans, but does not itself establish that construction or financing is complete. The facility is planned beside JERA’s Chiba power station, with electricity supplied directly from the plant rather than through a conventional grid connection. JERA is to provide land and power, Dell is to supply standardized, rack-scale AI infrastructure, and RHAELM is responsible for developing and building the site. The companies have described RHAELM’s role as also covering operation and financing. Reports put the intended power-supply agreement at between 15 and 25 years; a single agreed term has not been specified.