SunCast 893: Data Centers Aren’t the Problem: Grid Fitness Explained by Tyler Norris & Nelson Abramson
Data centers aren’t the problem.
They’re the stress test.
As AI-driven demand surges, the grid is being pushed in ways it was never designed for. But instead of asking how to slow data centers down, today’s conversation asks a better question: Is the grid fit enough to handle what’s coming next?
In this Tactical Tuesday episode, recorded live with the Smart Electric Power Alliance, we explore grid fitness — a new way of thinking about flexibility, planning, and speed to power.
SEPA’s Ann Collier is joined by Tyler Norris and Nelson Abramson to break down what the data actually shows, what’s already working in the field, and what has to change upstream in planning and policy.
Expect to learn:
🔹 Why data centers expose grid weaknesses rather than cause them
🔹 How 0.25% flexibility could unlock 76 GW of capacity
🔹 What “planning-grade flexibility” really means
🔹 Why batteries and design matter more than demand response
🔹 How grid fitness changes interconnection strategy
This episode offers a front-row seat to how utilities, regulators, and hyperscalers can move from cautious conversation to confident execution.
Hit play and reimagine what data centers can do.
Why are you still reading? Let’s get into it.
Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast?
Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.
Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolar
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on: