Harwood’s Polaris Forge 2 nears operation as a massive AI data center rises

Applied Digital’s Polaris Forge 2 AI data center in Harwood, ND is nearing completion, comprising two 907,000-square-foot buildings totaling 280 MW and a $3 billion investment. It is on track to become operational by the end of 2026 (with full opening in early 2027), will employ about 200–250 people, and has prompted local protests over electricity use. The company is funding a new substation and upgrades while claiming it will not increase residents’ electric bills; the site features a closed-loop cooling system and AR-assisted maintenance for workers.