PJM Targets 15 Gigawatts of New Power for Data Center Boom

Massive electricity consumption from the data centers that run AI are transforming the global energy landscape. 

Photographer: Bloomberg/Bloomberg

PJM Interconnection LLC is seeking 15 gigawatts of new power supplies in an emergency proposal to address potential electricity shortages stemming from the boom in artificial intelligence.

The operator of the 13-state eastern US grid would match proposed data centers with new power plants, PJM said on its website Friday. This process would take place from September through March 2027. Late next week, PJM will ask how many suitors on both sides are interested in participating in bilateral negotiations, along with terms such as contract duration.