The rapid growth of AI data centers in the U. S. is straining power grids and affecting the quality of electricity supplied to homes, posing risks like appliance damage and increased fire hazards, according to a Bloomberg analysis. The surge in data centers is contributing to a problem called "bad harmonics," where normal electricity flow is disrupted, causing voltage spikes and dips. Most of the homes affected are near major data center operations, particularly in areas like Chicago and Northern Virginia.
Whisker Labs' tracking of power quality indicates that over three-quarters of the worst-affected homes are close to significant data center activity. Continuous exposure to distorted power can lead to overheating of electronics and malfunctions in appliances, resulting in potential damages worth billions. Experts warn that these power quality issues could escalate further, creating conditions that lead to fires or blackouts.
The major concern lies in the high demand for electricity from data centers, which can consume as much as 10,000 times the amount used by a single household. The U. S. is expected to see a 16 percent rise in power demand in the next five years due to the increasing number of data centers. This added strain comes on top of an already overloaded grid, which is affected by factors like aging infrastructure, extreme weather, and the rising electrification of transportation and heating.
Chicago shows significant harmonic distortions with over a third of sensors reporting high levels, and similar issues are prevalent in Northern Virginia. The impact is felt across urban and rural areas alike, with sensors near data centers consistently detecting more distorted power quality.
While there are various reasons for bad harmonics, such as industrial machinery and renewable energy inverters, the link to data centers is particularly strong. Although some solutions, like specialized substations and power filtering equipment, are being introduced, the lack of detailed, house-by-house monitoring by utilities poses a challenge. Issues with power quality often go unnoticed until they become serious.
Regulatory considerations highlight the utility customer's right to receive quality power, emphasizing the need for measurement and monitoring to ensure consumers receive what they deserve.
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