AI infrastructure drives surge in US gas power capacity

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure in the United States is projected to significantly increase reliance on gas-fired power generation. A new analysis by the Environment America Research and Policy Center indicates that gas generator capacity will rise by 44 percent over the next four years. This growth is attributed to the substantial electricity demands of data centers, which are accelerating the construction of new fossil fuel facilities while simultaneously reducing planned investments in renewable energy sources.

The forecast suggests an addition of nearly 20 gigawatts of gas capacity by 2030. This represents a substantial increase relative to the current national gas generator capacity of 41.8 gigawatts. The scale of this planned expansion exceeds the combined output of every US state except Texas, California, and Florida. Concurrently, the sector is witnessing a contraction in green energy projects, with a 34 percent decrease in planned wind farm capacity recorded since December 2025. This shift reflects a broader trend where energy developers are prioritising gas and coal-powered facilities over environmentally friendly alternatives such as offshore wind farms.

Critics argue that this trajectory threatens the nation’s transition to clean energy. Andre Delattre, chief operating officer for The Public Interest Network, stated that the data clearly shows surging electricity demand is putting the clean energy transition at risk. He warned that the long lifespans of new gas plants could lock the country into decades of fossil fuel dependence, potentially negating any benefits of data centers if environmental damage occurs. Furthermore, the capacity forecast does not include gas plants connected directly to specific data center facilities. Examples include turbines powering a 1.2 gigawatt data center in Memphis, Tennessee, which have been reported to affect local communities. These additional installations are expected to further contribute to air quality concerns as the sector continues to expand.