Core Insights - The energy demand of data centers in the U.S. is expected to nearly double by 2027, increasing from approximately 17 gigawatts to over 30 gigawatts [3][4] - The Trump administration is pushing for a 30-fold increase in the speed of regulatory approvals for data center connections to the power grid, with proposed review timelines limited to 60 days [1][6] - AI-related data centers are projected to experience a compound annual growth rate of 47.9%, significantly outpacing non-AI data centers [3] Energy Demand and Supply - FTI Consulting forecasts that global data center power demand will reach 71 gigawatts by 2027, driven by surging AI-related needs [3] - The average waiting time for projects in the U.S. interconnection queue has increased to over five years, with many projects ultimately being withdrawn [4][5] - Historical data shows that 72% of projects in the interconnection queue from 1999 to 2018 were eventually withdrawn, indicating significant challenges in project completion [4] Regulatory Challenges - High costs associated with grid upgrades are a major barrier to new project viability, alongside issues like land control and financing difficulties [5] - The Trump administration's initiatives aim to simplify the permitting process for data centers and related infrastructure, including new exemptions under the National Environmental Policy Act [6][7] - The proposed rules by the Department of Energy include expedited reviews for data centers that either bring new power plants or agree to reduce power usage during peak demand [6] Economic Implications - The rising demand for electricity from data centers is expected to lead to increased transmission upgrade costs, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers [7] - The anticipated costs for transmission upgrades in the PJM interconnection region are projected to reach $4.4 billion in 2024, reflecting the financial burden of accommodating data center demands [7]