Fermi America (FRMI) received final approval of a 6‑gigawatt Clean Air Permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for its Project Matador campus in Amarillo, Texas. The permit, granted on February 25, 2026, covers the company’s planned natural‑gas‑based power generation and is the second‑largest Clean Air Permit issued in the United States.
The approval removes a major regulatory hurdle for the 11‑GW private‑grid campus, allowing Fermi to mobilize its gas‑turbine fleet and advance the first phase of construction. By securing the permit, the company de‑risks the project’s timeline and opens the door to the next stage of financing and tenant negotiations, positioning the campus to deliver dedicated, low‑carbon power for AI data centers and other high‑demand users.
"Securing the second largest Clean Air Permit in the country is yet one more significant milestone for our 11 GW private grid campus. With the issuance of today's air permit, the support of our fellow West Texans, and Toby's foresight to lock up over 2 GW of long lead time power assets, Fermi is uniquely positioned to help America's hyperscalers quickly secure the private power they need at scale," said Cathy Landtroop, Chief Communications Officer & Director of Strategic Initiatives.
Project Matador is designed to meet the surging electricity demand driven by AI, advanced manufacturing, and other high‑power applications. The campus will integrate natural gas, advanced nuclear, solar, and battery storage to provide a reliable, scalable power solution that does not burden the public grid. The permit approval signals progress toward delivering this dedicated infrastructure to hyperscalers and other large commercial users.
The company is also navigating legal and environmental challenges. Fermi faces securities class action lawsuits alleging misstatements about tenant demand and funding for Project Matador, including the termination of a $150 million funding agreement with a potential tenant in December 2025. Community groups have raised concerns about the project’s impact on water resources, the agricultural economy, and public health.
The announcement was welcomed by investors, reflecting confidence in the project’s progress and the company’s ability to execute on its long‑term strategy for AI‑driven power infrastructure.
The content on EveryTicker is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.