The scale of anticipated data center growth continues to evolve. According to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), data centers could account for 9% to 17% of U.S. electricity consumption by 2030, up from approximately 4% to 5% today. Notably, EPRI’s latest projections are roughly 60% higher than those published in 2024, reflecting the rapid pace of development activity across the country.

Artificial intelligence is contributing to the increase. EPRI estimates AI workloads currently account for 15% to 25% of data center electricity use, with demand expected to grow alongside continued expansion of digital infrastructure.

The changing outlook is prompting utilities, grid operators, and regulators to revisit long-term planning assumptions. Federal regulators have directed regional grid operators to review policies related to large-load interconnections, resource adequacy, and transmission planning as new sources of demand emerge.

Source: EPRI.com