Key facts
- The U.S. Department of Energy authorized PJM Interconnection to require data centers to use backup power.
- The measure is in response to a heat wave and aims to prevent grid strain and blackouts.
- Texas is leading a national surge in proposed gas-fired power plants.
- 32 of 74 planned gas-fired power plants nationwide are slated for Texas.
- These plants are intended to fuel AI and data center projects.
- Critics argue these plants will increase emissions and natural gas demand.
The U.S. Department of Energy has authorized PJM Interconnection to mandate that data centers and other large electricity consumers switch to backup power sources during an ongoing heat wave. This directive is intended to alleviate strain on the electricity grid, which is experiencing surging demand due to high temperatures, and to avert potential blackouts.