WIRED Business·3 min read

The AI Race Is Pressuring Utilities to Squeeze More From Europe’s Power Grids

Europe's power grid struggles to meet AI data center demand

European countries are racing to establish new data centers to meet the surging demand for AI computing power, but they face significant challenges due to inadequate grid infrastructure. With over 30 gigawatts of power demand from proposed data centers awaiting connection in the UK, utilities are exploring innovative solutions to enhance grid capacity, including dynamic line rating technologies. However, the slow pace of building new transmission infrastructure means that many projects risk cancellation, jeopardizing Europe's ambitions in the AI sector.

Key Takeaways

  • 1.

    Over 30 gigawatts of data center power demand is currently awaiting connection in the UK.

  • 2.

    National Grid has expanded network capacity by 16GW in the last five years using grid-enhancing technologies.

  • 3.

    An EU study suggests that applying grid-enhancing technologies could increase overall network capacity by 40 percent.

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The AI Race Is Pressuring Utilities to Squeeze More From Europe’s Power Grids | Trace