Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, but its growth is also placing immense pressure on U.S. power grids. Electricity demand is expected to rise by 38% over the next decade, according to PJM Interconnection LLC, which manages power across 13 states from Washington DC to Illinois.
By 2035, peak summer demand is projected to climb by nearly 58 gigawatts, reaching a total of 210 gigawatts—more than twice the peak demand record of New England’s power grid.
Data Centers Driving Energy Consumption
AI’s expansion relies heavily on energy-intensive data centers that process and store vast amounts of information. These centers, crucial to AI’s growth, are growing in both size and number, with some facilities consuming energy equivalent to entire cities.
As businesses and governments increasingly adopt AI technologies, the power needs of these data centers are expected to multiply. The demand comes at a time when much of the U.S. power grid infrastructure is outdated, raising concerns about its ability to handle the surge.
Infrastructure Challenges
The existing power plants and transmission systems are struggling to keep pace with demand, highlighting the urgency for upgrades. While renewable energy and efficiency improvements offer potential relief, the rapid growth of AI-related energy consumption could outstrip these measures.
Trump’s Call for New Power Plants
Amid mounting concerns, former President Donald Trump proposed building new power plants alongside data centers to address the growing energy needs. Speaking at Davos, Trump emphasized the importance of ensuring energy supply aligns with AI-driven demands, avoiding delays and mitigating grid strain.
Trump’s comments underscore a larger issue: the aging U.S. electrical infrastructure may not be ready for the AI revolution. With AI playing a critical role in national security and the economy, updating the power grid is essential to sustain technological progress.
Conclusion
The rise of artificial intelligence marks a pivotal moment for energy demand in the United States. As data centers consume record levels of electricity, ensuring the grid’s reliability and scalability will be vital for the nation’s economic and technological future.