Topic analysis

Racing to green the world's data centers

The explosive growth of data centers, driven by rising demand for generative AI and digital services, is straining electricity grids globally, particularly in the U.S.—which hosts the world’s largest number of such facilities. While renewables power nearly a quarter of U.S. data centers, grid operators and utilities are increasingly relying on fossil fuels (delaying plant closures, reversing clean energy commitments) to meet demand; advocates push for grid infrastructure upgrades and renewable expansion, and some communities oppose new facilities over cost and environmental risks.