The rapid growth of artificial intelligence and data centers is driving what could become one of the largest expansions of the U.S. electric grid since World War II, as utilities race to build new high-voltage transmission lines to meet surging electricity demand, The Wall Street Journal writes.
Power companies across the country are planning tens of billions of dollars in upgrades to an aging grid originally designed decades ago, with major investments aimed at delivering power to energy-intensive data centers. Utilities say the projects are essential to maintain reliability, connect new power plants and relieve strain on existing infrastructure.
But a major question remains unresolved: Who will ultimately pay for the massive build-out. Tech companies behind the AI boom have pledged to cover some of the costs, while regulators and utilities warn that residential customers may still shoulder part of the burden through higher electric bills.
With grid operators already approving multibillion-dollar transmission projects, the debate over cost sharing could shape the future of energy infrastructure and electricity prices nationwide.
The Wall Street Journal has the full story.
