Surging Data Center Growth to Help Lower Energy Costs for PG&E Customers

Core Insights - PG&E is experiencing a significant increase in electricity demand from new data centers, projected to require approximately 8.7 GW over the next decade, up from 5.5 GW reported at the end of 2024 [1][6] - The growth in data center demand is expected to benefit PG&E customers, potentially leading to a 1-2% reduction in monthly electric bills for every 1 GW of new demand [7] - PG&E is actively supporting the development of new data centers in collaboration with real estate developers, including a project in downtown San Jose that will also include residential units [2][13] Electricity Demand and Infrastructure - Each 1 GW of electricity can power around 750,000 homes simultaneously, highlighting the scale of the new demand [4] - PG&E is currently working on 18 new data center projects totaling approximately 1.4 GW, with operations expected to begin between 2026 and 2030 [6] - The new energy demand allows PG&E to utilize its existing power infrastructure more efficiently, spreading costs over a larger energy output [8] Future Projects and Studies - PG&E is conducting a follow-up study across its entire service area to assess data center needs, covering 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California [9] - In addition to the current 8.7 GW pipeline, PG&E has received 21 new project applications totaling approximately 4.1 GW of additional power demand [10] - By grouping applications and projects, PG&E aims to enhance planning efficiency, reduce costs, and expedite customer connections [11]