Technology
Research finds AI datacentres plan 181GW of on-site gas power
The Guardian reports that datacentre developers plan on-site gas plants to bypass grid delays, drawing warnings about lasting emissions.
The short version
- Research by BloombergNEF finds AI datacentre developers in the US, UK and mainland Europe plan 181GW of on-site gas-fired capacity.[The Guardian]
- Developers cite grid connection delays, and UK planned datacentres made over 100 gas connection inquiries in 2024-5, according to Future Energy Networks.[The Guardian]
- The US rollout could emit about 345 million metric tonnes of CO2e a year if it proceeds, and Global Action Plan says such gas plants should be a red line for governments.[The Guardian]
Key facts
- Research cited by The Guardian says datacentres in the US, UK and mainland Europe propose 181GW of on-site gas-fired capacity due to grid connection delays.[The Guardian]
- BloombergNEF research estimates the planned US rollout could emit about 345 million metric tonnes of CO2e a year.[The Guardian]
- The research predicts AI datacentre electricity demand could almost quadruple by 2035 to 2,354 terawatt-hours.[The Guardian]
- Future Energy Networks says UK planned datacentres made more than 100 inquiries in 2024-5 to connect to gas.[The Guardian]
- Mark Daly of BloombergNEF says speed to power is becoming a primary priority for datacentre developers.[The Guardian]
- Oliver Hayes of Global Action Plan says private gas power stations for datacentres should be a red line for governments.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- It is unknown whether the planned on-site gas plants will be built; the emissions estimate applies only if the rollout happens.[The Guardian]
- The findings are reported by a single outlet and have not been independently verified beyond the cited research.[The Guardian]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.