Wholesale electricity prices on America's largest power grid have surged by nearly 76% in the first quarter of 2026, driven by the increasing demand from AI data centers. PJM Interconnection, which serves 67 million people across 13 states, reported a price increase from $7.78 to $36.53 per megawatt-hour. The grid operator warns that the impact is irreversible and current capacity is insufficient to meet future demand. AI
IMPACT Accelerating AI development strains existing power infrastructure, potentially increasing operational costs and requiring significant grid upgrades.
RANK_REASON Significant increase in electricity prices due to AI infrastructure demand impacting a major power grid. [lever_c_demoted from significant: ic=1 ai=0.7]
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