Data centers must 'bring their own flexibility' to grids

Kari Hyde of the Pembina Institute argues jurisdictions should require data centers to bring flexibility as well as power when connecting to local grids (op-ed published June 5, 2026 in Canada’s National Observer).

• Main action:Require data centers to ‘bring their own power’ and to ‘bring their own flexibility’ — the author calls for policies and utility processes that make flexible demand visible and valuable (examples of flexibility: shifting computing loads, strategic cooling management, onsite batteries/backup systems, and high-efficiency equipment). The piece cites an IEA projection that data centers will account for nearly half of US electricity demand growth between now and 2030 and was published June 5, 2026.
• Background and implementation details: Utilities and policymakers should assess whether flexible demand can avoid or defer costly local distribution and substation upgrades, update grid connection processes, and create utility programs and load management approaches that capture flexibility at the local level instead of defaulting to new infrastructure build-outs.