Most coal-fired power plants will delay retirement to feed AI boom, energy secretary says

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. administration plans to keep most coal-fired power plants operational to meet the increasing electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence, while also expanding nuclear energy and utilizing backup power plants continuously [1][2]. Group 1: Coal-Fired Power Plants - The administration expects the majority of U.S. coal plants nearing retirement to delay closure as part of a strategy to enhance power output [2][3]. - Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated that the government is prepared to use emergency powers to extend the life of coal-fired plants, including a recent order to keep a Michigan coal plant running despite its planned closure [3][4]. - The focus is on preventing the retirement of existing firm capacity to avoid blackouts and manage utility prices [2][4]. Group 2: Nuclear Energy - The White House aims to boost nuclear energy through regulatory reforms to expedite permitting and support new nuclear technologies [5]. - Two previously shut nuclear power plants, including the Three Mile Island facility, are in the process of being restarted to provide electricity for data centers [6]. Group 3: Backup Power and Grid Stability - The administration plans to maximize the existing grid's output by running backup generators and standby power plants continuously, rather than only during peak demand [4].