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North Carolina Data Center Intel
Latest data center news, projects, power and policy across North Carolina — updated daily.
Recent North Carolina data center news
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Alberta prioritizing U.S. data center needs, former deputy minister says
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Despite semiconductor exemption, Trump tariffs could chill US data center investment: analysts
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Meeting Unprecedented Need with Cutting-Edge Solutions
Apex Clean Energy has highlighted the urgent need for new energy solutions due to the anticipated demand from data centers, which are projected to require 63 GW of new capacity by 2030—a 160% increase from current levels. The aging electric grid and lengthy interconnection timelines have prompted the adoption of co-located renewable systems, allowing for direct power supply to data centers, significantly improving time-to-power and sustainability. By utilizing a mix of wind, solar, and energy storage, these systems can meet a large percentage of data center electricity needs efficiently and reliably.
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The Southeast needs regional transmission for clean energy and savings, groups say
The Clean Energy Buyers Association (CEBA), Southern Renewable Energy Association (SREA), and Carolinas Clean Energy Business Association (CCEBA) have highlighted the need for significant upgrades to the power grid in the Southeast, which is the only major U.S. region without approved regional transmission projects. A Brattle report projects that three 500 kV transmission line upgrades will cost $5 billion and yield $8 billion in savings, resulting in a net benefit of $3 billion. Savings stem from lower operational costs and increased grid reliability against extreme weather. These upgrades are presented as essential for attracting new industries while ensuring competitive energy pricing.
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🌎 CoreWeave IPO’s jolt to power demand #239
CoreWeave, a startup operating AI-tailored data centers, went public on March 29 with a valuation of $20bn after raising $1.5bn at $40/share. The IPO’s performance has raised concerns about the demand for AI infrastructure and its impact on energy needs, particularly as Microsoft reduces its data center investments. This decline in projected energy demand could affect future investments in clean power sources like nuclear and geothermal energy.
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🌎 CERAWeek 2025: More power, more problems #237
CERAWeek 2025, dubbed the ‘Super Bowl of Energy’, took place in Houston and emphasized the pressing need for energy solutions amidst AI demands. Key discussions highlighted $40m in specialty chemicals funding, $28m in air carbon capture, and $28m in grid power storage. Secretary Chris Wright criticized previous green policies, pushing for gas, nuclear, and geothermal solutions instead. Industry leaders are advocating for an ‘all of the above’ approach to meet energy demands despite existing supply chain challenges and policy uncertainties.
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How utilities can accelerate microgrid deployment
The article discusses the expected surge in US electricity demand, which is forecasted to grow by an average of 3% per year over the next five years. Utilities are adopting a multifaceted approach to meet this demand, including the deployment of microgrids. Duke Energy has implemented a solar-powered microgrid in Hot Springs, NC, to enhance reliability in remote areas. Meanwhile, Xcel Energy plans to establish a network of solar-powered energy storage hubs to improve reliability and support clean energy development.
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🌎 Gas turbine gridlock #236
Engie recently pulled out of two gas plants in Texas, Perseus and Spenser, due to procurement delays. The White House’s energy abundance agenda and rising electricity demand from data centers highlight the role of natural gas. However, gas turbine manufacturers are facing severe delays, with delivery backlogs extending to 2029. As a result, the gas plant projects are threatened, prompting developers to plan equipment acquisition well into the future.
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Lawmakers Scrutinize Power Sector’s Future as Surging Demand Raises Alarms
US-based Basin Electric Power Cooperative has raised concerns in Congress regarding the escalating demand for electricity, specifically noting a significant increase tied to AI-driven data centers and industrial loads. They estimate a need for nearly $10 billion in compliance costs due to new regulations alongside an expected 60% increase in rates by 2035. The demand for natural gas is projected to triple from 2024 to 2030, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced natural gas infrastructure to maintain grid reliability. Furthermore, PJM Interconnection’s forecasts predict a summer peak demand of up to 220,000 MW by 2039, driven by demand from emerging technologies and manufacturing.
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Study Suggests Utilities May Be Overbuilding and Overspending to Accommodate New Data Centers
US-based Duke University has conducted a study indicating that electric utilities can handle the demand growth from data centers for most of the year. The coauthor, Dalia Patiño-Echeverri, noted that by shifting the timing of power requests during critical hours, utilities can accommodate increased loads without the need for new generation or transmission infrastructure. This approach could prevent unnecessary overbuilding and overspending by utilities.