Rising electricity needs test US climate ambitions

A surge in power demand poses challenge to U.S. climate goals, driven by data centers and EVs.

Brad Plumer and Nadja Popovich report for The New York Times.

In short:

• The U.S. sees an unexpected surge in electricity demand due to data centers, manufacturing growth, and electric vehicles, doubling utilities' forecasts for 2028.
• This surge strains electric grids and could increase reliance on fossil fuels, potentially derailing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Utilities argue the need for more fossil fuel plants due to slow growth of renewable energy sources and the continuous power demand from new industries.

Key quote:

"I can’t recall the last time I was so alarmed about the country’s energy trajectory."

— Tyler H. Norris, a former solar developer and expert in power systems

Why this matters:

As America grapples with this surge in power use, the ripple effects could touch everyone— from increased energy bills to challenges in meeting climate commitments.

With solar leading the way, clean energy capacity growth is helping the planet avoid billions of tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.