A severe heatwave sweeping across the United States is raising alarms regarding the energy demands of AI data centres. On July 3, 2026, operators are being urged to switch to backup generators as the country grapples with increased power and water consumption due to these facilities.
AI Data Centres Strain Power Grids Amid Heatwave
The ongoing heatwave is testing the limits of the US power grid and water supplies, as the country accelerates the construction of AI data centres. According to the US Department of Energy, data centres currently account for 4 percent of US power demand, projected to rise to 9 percent by 2030.
Authorities have warned that the rapid expansion of these facilities is outpacing the development of necessary electricity and water infrastructure. Utilities and regulators are increasingly concerned about the sustainability of this growth, particularly during extreme weather events.
Political Responses to Data Centre Expansion
Lawmakers across the political spectrum are calling for greater oversight of data centres. On Tuesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott proposed a ban on new data centres in rural areas, advocating for facilities to generate their own power and recycle water. Meanwhile, politicians such as Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are urging a moratorium on new constructions.
A recent Gallup survey revealed that 70 percent of Americans oppose data centre construction in their communities, with concerns about resource depletion being a primary issue.
Impact of Heatwaves on Cooling Systems
Extreme temperatures are exacerbating the energy demands of data centres, particularly in regions like the South and Midwest, where the majority are located. During normal conditions, cooling systems in these facilities can consume up to 40 percent of their electricity. This demand increases significantly with rising temperatures, a trend linked to climate change.
The PJM Interconnection, the largest power grid operator in the US, has requested that data centres switch to backup power within 15 minutes during emergencies to conserve energy for residential and commercial customers. This request comes as the heat dome affects the Eastern Seaboard, with temperatures in cities like Washington, DC and New York reaching unprecedented highs.
- Key Statistics:
- Data centres account for 4% of US power demand.
- Projected to increase to 9% by 2030.
- Cooling systems use 40% of electricity under normal conditions.
- Over 38% of Americans live within five miles of a data centre.
As the situation evolves, the pressures on the power grid are expected to intensify, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the AI data centre sector.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
