“AI热潮”反噬美国电网：数据中心太多，要爆了

Core Viewpoint - The current "AI boom" in the U.S. is creating significant challenges for PJM, the largest grid operator, pushing it towards a supply crisis due to increasing demand from data centers and rising electricity prices, leading to potential rolling blackouts [1][5]. Group 1: PJM's Challenges - PJM operates across 13 states, serving 67 million people, and is facing a surge in electricity demand driven by AI data centers, which have an insatiable appetite for power [1][6]. - The number of data centers is increasing rapidly, with PJM predicting an average annual electricity demand growth of 4.8% over the next decade, a stark contrast to years of stagnant demand [5][8]. - Aging power plants are being retired faster than new ones are being built, leading to a risk of capacity exhaustion during peak usage times, which may necessitate rolling blackouts [1][5][8]. Group 2: Consumer Impact and Regulatory Issues - Rising electricity prices are causing consumer dissatisfaction, with some states experiencing significant price hikes, such as New Jersey, where prices rose by approximately 2% last June [9][10]. - Tech companies like Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft oppose proposed regulations that would require data centers to either self-generate power or reduce consumption during peak demand [5][14]. - Environmental groups are calling for a nationwide pause on new data center constructions due to their high energy consumption and associated environmental impacts [7][9]. Group 3: Political and Regulatory Landscape - The political landscape complicates PJM's operations, as different states have varying policies regarding energy generation and infrastructure development [10]. - Pennsylvania's governor has initiated legal action to limit price increases in PJM's market, highlighting the disconnect between consumer interests and regulatory frameworks [9][10]. - PJM's leadership transition, with the current CEO set to leave by the end of 2025, adds uncertainty to the organization's ability to address these challenges effectively [5][10].