Secondary Issues

Our power grid is outdated, and much of our infrastructure has exceeded its intended lifespan. The rising energy demand from data centers, AI infrastructure, and EV chargers is only worsening this issue. As of 2023, data centers consumed approximately 4.4% of all U.S. electricity, a figure expected to triple by 2028. These effects are already being felt in Northern Virginia, which is home to over 200 data centers that facilitate 70% of global web traffic. Additionally, overall electricity demand is expected to grow 25% by 2030 and 78% by 2050. As these changes mount across the rest of the nation, the intense energy draw is leaving residents footing the bill. While the Department of Energy has attempted to mitigate the problem by delaying coal and gas plant retirements, this band-aid approach creates additional environmental harm. To prevent the power grid from being overwhelmed, we must turn to more efficient and sustainable energy solutions.