The United States is experiencing a growing demand for power. Although energy production is at an all-time high, this is still not enough to match future demand. Experts predict that in the next 25 years, the power demand will skyrocket to 50% higher than current levels. These findings are relevant across all major sectors such as transportation, industries, residential and commercial. Sectors like these are in control of the country’s power supply, however, over 1,000 more terawatts are needed to power the needs of the future.
The electrification of the United States has been an ongoing phenomena for the past century. From electric vehicles to appliances, we are reliant on these devices to keep up with the rapid evolution of our environment. Part of this change is driven by the rise of AI, which now takes over much of the United States’ energy allocation. New data centers are constantly being built across the country and the rate is increasing.
If the US is not able to meet this power demand, there are many consequences to be faced. Public transportation systems would be affected as fuel cannot be pumped on demand. Communication networks would shut down and supply chains would stall. Banking systems would also be significantly disrupted. This struggle to meet demand alongside an aging power grid presents an urgent challenge for the United States moving forward.
The key to mitigating these risks is improving overall infrastructure. However, the system is hundreds of thousands of miles long, and equipment prices and replacement costs are high. There are also long lead times for important power-related equipment. Especially with aging infrastructure, the likelihood for a need to repair or replace are high. Now is the time to consider alternative power sources and new suppliers for infrastructural equipment in order to ensure that the US can power the needs of tomorrow.
