5C Data Centers Files $575 Million Permit for Memphis AI Computing Facility Expansion

5C Data Centers has filed a $575 million permit application for a major expansion of its MEM01 AI computing facility in Memphis. This fourth phase targets approximately 504,000 square feet within the 1.1 million-square-foot former Fred's headquarters and distribution complex at 4300 Getwell Road. The project exemplifies industrial adaptive reuse, transforming a large retail logistics facility into a high-density AI infrastructure site.

A critical component of the expansion is the planned increase in power capacity from 20 MW to 84 MW over the next six months. 5C intends to achieve this by deploying fuel cell technology for additional capacity, thereby reducing its sole reliance on Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW). This power strategy is particularly relevant as Memphis considers a data center moratorium and new zoning standards due to concerns over electricity demand and other community impacts.

The facility is designed to support advanced AI architecture, including NVIDIA GB200 and GB300 NVL72 systems, liquid cooling, and high-bandwidth networking. This development highlights Memphis's growing role as an AI infrastructure hub. For developers and investors, 5C's innovative approach to on-site power generation and adaptive reuse provides a case study in navigating infrastructure constraints and evolving regulatory landscapes in rapidly expanding tech markets.