New projections from BloombergNEF suggest that data centers could account for nearly one-fifth of all electricity generated in the United States by 2035, marking a fourfold increase from today's level.
The forecast points to a rapid expansion in AI-driven computing, with data center capacity expected to approach 200 gigawatts over the next decade. Nearly half of that capacity is likely to support training and inference workloads, with the U.S. remaining the main hub for this growth.
The report also notes that by 2033, the U.S. could host 64% of AI chips by power demand, underscoring how concentrated the industry has become. Similar revisions in estimates from other organizations reflect how quickly the sector is scaling.
Grid operators in major U.S. regions are expected to feel the pressure most strongly. In some areas, data centers may absorb a large share of available power capacity, increasing the importance of smarter planning, faster interconnection, and more efficient infrastructure.
Beyond the U.S., global electricity demand from data centers is also projected to rise sharply as AI adoption expands across industries. The trend highlights a turning point for digital infrastructure, where innovation and energy strategy will need to move in step. The next decade could redefine how the world powers intelligence at scale.
