Workshop examines energy and grid choices for AI data centers

          NC Clean Energy Technology Center
          
            · March 24, 2026
          
          · ✓ verified

NC State University hosted the Workshop on Energy Needs for AI Data Centers (FREEDM Center) to examine energy demand, grid integration, technology pathways and policy choices for AI-scale data centers.

Main announcement/action: The workshop presented concrete projections and site examples and discussed on-site generation (“bring your own generation“) as an interim solution while utility capacity expands. Key facts: Duke Energy projections show global AI data center demand rising from 485 TWh (2024) to 945 TWh (2030) (IEA base case, ~3% of global energy by 2030); hyperscale data centers range from 10 MW to 1 GW, with specific examples of Amazon (up to 400 MW, Richmond County, NC) and Microsoft (600 MW, Person County, NC); PowerSecure stated it can ramp up generation + storage behind-the-meter and repurpose assets to the grid after 5-10 years.
- Date: March 2026
- Location: NC State University, College of Engineering (FREEDM Center)
- Agenda/subject: meeting energy demands, grid integration challenges, technology pathways, policy considerations for AI data centers
Background and details: The discussion contrasted grid-centric plans (Duke Energy’s 2025 IRP weighted to natural gas) with onsite alternatives including engines/turbines, fuel cells, geothermal, thermal energy storage, CHP; legislative context includes Virginia HB323 prioritizing waste heat capture and reuse. Examples cited: Joule Energy data center (Millard County, UT) up to 4 GW and DataOne Vineland, NJ up to 300 MW; references include IEA (Energy and AI) and U.S. DOE guidance on AI.

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