The AI boom is gobbling up power faster than ever
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The AI boom is gobbling up power faster than ever
By Hannah Beckler
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The AI boom is gobbling up power faster than ever
If all data centers permitted through 2025 come online, they will use more than all the electricity used by any one US state in 2024, except Texas.
TL;DRAI
US issued 176 data center permits in 2025—record since 1976—projecting 224–358 terawatt-hours annual use, driven by hyperscale AI infrastructure. Wholesale power costs jumped 76% in major grids; utilities raising consumer rates while rural communities face water scarcity and environmental impact.
2,212 words~10 min read
