The growing number of data centers may pose a significant threat to the US power grid. According to a report by Bloomberg, more than half of households experiencing severe power distortions live near major data center locations.
Data center proximity has been linked to “bad harmonics” – imperfect electrical power flow into homes that can damage appliances and increase fire risks. AI data centers are particularly problematic due to their fluctuating energy needs.
Grid officials express concerns about handling such load fluctuations, especially when multiple data centers are involved. A spokesperson for Chicago’s Commonwealth Edison questioned the accuracy of Whisker Labs’ claims, which were used in the report.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2024/12/29/ai-data-centers-could-be-distorting-the-us-power-grid