Summary - Energy Needs of Data Centers South

The rapid growth of data centers, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital services, is placing unprecedented pressure on the US energy infrastructure. By 2030, data centers could account for 12% of US electricity consumption, nearly tripling their 2023 share of 4%and intensifying demand on the nation’s energy infrastructure.

While much attention has been focused on increasing generation capacity, a key challenge lies in expanding and modernizing the transmission and distribution (T&D) systems that deliver power to these data centers. The grid must evolve swiftly to support this growth. One of the most pressing concerns is the long interconnection timelines faced by data center operators. However, the demand for power driven by AI and data center expansion is increasing at a much faster rate, creating a substantial gap between the industry’s needs and the grid’s ability to provide power. Building new T&D infrastructure is costly, time-consuming, and complex. Although utilities are adopting new strategies for power infrastructure the critical question remains: How can we meet the rising demand for energy from data centers while ensuring grid reliability and sustainability?

The surge in data center development presents both challenges and unique opportunities. As energy demand grows, there is a strong need for innovative solutions. Collaboration among utilities, data center operators, equipment manufacturers, and energy innovators is essential to develop sustainable, scalable, and efficient strategies to cope with the increasing power demand of data centers.

In response to these developments, Global Transmission Report is pleased to announce its upcoming conference, Energy Needs of Data Centers South, scheduled for October 8-9, 2025, at The Westin Buckhead Atlanta, GA. This event will explore the challenges, opportunities, and innovations surrounding the energy demand of data centers.

This high-impact two-day conference will gather leading industry experts from data center operations, utilities, technology providers, and consulting firms to discuss the complex and evolving energy requirements of the US data center industry. With a focus on scalability, sustainability, and innovation, the conference will address critical issues such as power generation, grid infrastructure, onsite and behind-the-meter solutions, and innovations in energy management, all aimed at tackling the challenges of an industry poised for explosive growth.