AI’s Energy Appetite Puts Data Center Power Demand, Utility Stocks in Focus
Nvidia and Emerald AI announced partnerships with major U.S. power companies to develop AI data centers that can adjust electricity use during grid stress, aiming to ease power constraints. U.S. electricity demand is projected to rise 1.9% in 2026 and 2.5% in 2027, with Texas and the Mid-Atlantic seeing the fastest growth. Nvidia shares rose 2.4% after the news. North American solar and wind contract prices climbed 9% year-on-year.