AI and Crypto Energy Demands Threaten Power Grid Stability in North America

Watchdog warns of rising risk of blackouts as surging energy consumption outpaces supply and power plant closures accelerate.

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reports a 15% rise in electricity demand over the next decade, driven by AI, crypto mining, electric vehicles, and heat pumps.
AI data centers are consuming massive amounts of energy, with projections estimating AI could account for 8% of U.S. electricity use by 2030, a 160% increase from current levels.
The closure of coal, natural gas, and nuclear power plants is creating resource adequacy challenges, with delays in renewable energy deployment exacerbating risks of power shortfalls.
Major tech firms, including Microsoft, are turning to nuclear power and other alternative energy sources to meet growing energy needs for AI infrastructure.
The U.S. faces potential blackouts, while regions like the Middle East are positioning themselves as data center hubs due to cheaper energy and fewer regulatory hurdles.