Catalyst with Shayle Kann

The potential for flexible data centers

40 snips
Mar 27, 2025
Tyler Norris, a PhD candidate at Duke University and former VP of Development at Cypress Creek Renewables, dives into the fascinating world of data center flexibility. He highlights the paradox that while data centers are often seen as inflexible, there's potential for them to support grid stability. Tyler shares insights from a study revealing that small load curtailments could free up 98 gigawatts of capacity. They discuss innovative strategies like colocating power generation and optimizing operations, illustrating how data centers can actively participate in demand response.
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INSIGHT

Data Center Load Growth

  • AI-specialized data centers will likely be the largest driver of U.S. electricity load growth.
  • They may represent up to 44% of all load growth over the next five to seven years.
INSIGHT

Conflicting Narratives on Flexibility

  • Regulators receive conflicting information about data center flexibility.
  • Some claim they are inflexible, while others suggest potential flexibility.
INSIGHT

Grid Capacity with Curtailment

  • The U.S. grid could accommodate substantial additional data center load with minimal curtailment (0.5%).
  • This could add up to 98 GW of new data center capacity, equivalent to three to five Project Stargates.
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