FERC's order for grid operators to ease regulatory processes for data centers makes it clear that the next phase of the AI race will be shaped by both electrical and political power.

US states fast-track power plant approvals for AI data centers in as little as 45 days, bypassing public hearings and environmental reviews.

FERC plans to finalize rules by June 2026 that streamline how large data centers connect to the US power grid, targeting facilities exceeding 20 megawatts.