Utility Dive•23 days ago
U.S. data center power demand could reach 106 GW by 2035: BloombergNEF
Key Takeaway
The projected explosion in data center power demand creates an unprecedented market opportunity for power developers while simultaneously challenging grid operators and large consumers to secure adequate, reliable, and affordable supply.
AI Summary
- •U.S. data center power demand is projected to reach 106 GW by 2035, a 36% increase from previous estimates, signaling a massive surge in electricity needs.
- •This rapid load growth creates significant market opportunities for power developers but also poses substantial grid integration, interconnection, and supply challenges.
- •The forecast includes a cautionary note about potential 'AI bubble' or speculative proposals, suggesting a need for careful project evaluation and risk assessment for both developers and large loads.
Topics
capacity-marketdatacenterfinancinginterconnectpolicytransmission