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MARKETS · COLUMBUS

Columbus data center colocation for AI.

One of the tightest markets in the US, with a large build pipeline behind it. We search here for liquid-cooled and high-density space for GPU deployments from a single rack to 20 MW+.

LD Advisors · Updated October 25, 2026

MARKET SNAPSHOT · H1 2026

0.1% vacancy with 2 GW under construction.

3,488 MW

In operation

2,043 MW

Under construction

0.1%

Vacancy at mid-2026

17,861 MW

Data center load under contract with AEP Ohio

Columbus has almost no vacant space, so most options are in buildings still under construction. AEP Ohio's large-load tariff also means bigger deployments carry longer power commitments than in many markets.

Power, incentives and local rules

  • AEP Ohio's data center tariff, approved by Ohio regulators on July 9, 2025, covers new loads of 25 MW or more. Customers pay a minimum bill of up to 85% of contracted demand, over a ramp of up to four years plus an eight-year term.
  • Customers rated below A-/A3 must post added collateral under the tariff.
  • Governor DeWine paused new requests for Ohio's data center sales tax exemption on May 27, 2026.
  • Local pushback is growing. Jerome Township adopted a nine-month moratorium, and a data center vote in Ashville has gone to a referendum.
  • Grid and water: Ohio's 2024 generation was about 60% gas, 21% coal, 13% nuclear and under 5% wind and solar (EIA). A bill to require closed-loop cooling (HB 646) is pending, not law. Ask us if you want sites screened for power mix or water use.

Sources: AEP Ohio data center tariff; AEP Ohio (Feb 13, 2026); Office of the Governor (May 27, 2026); Ohio Capital Journal (Sep 22, 2026).

Common questions

Is there available data center capacity in Columbus?

Very little. Vacancy was about 0.1% at mid-2026 per JLL, with about 2 GW under construction per Cushman & Wakefield. Most options are pre-leases in new builds.

What does AEP Ohio's data center tariff mean for a GPU deployment?

Loads of 25 MW or more pay a minimum of up to 85% of contracted demand over a long term, so size your power request carefully. In colocation the operator holds the utility contract, but those terms can flow through to lease minimums.

Is Ohio still offering its data center sales tax exemption?

New requests were paused on May 27, 2026. We check the incentive status of each site before you sign.

Can Columbus sites support liquid-cooled GPU racks?

Some can, and more new builds are designed for it. We confirm cooling, rack density and the energization date for each site before we introduce it.

Sources: Cushman & Wakefield H1 2026; JLL Midyear 2026. All markets →

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