NewsUS power use to reach record highs in 2026 and 2027
US Energy Information Administration says power demand will rise. Demand is surging due to data centers and electrification. Wholesale electricity prices to average $52 per megawatt hour in 2026. This affects your business's electricity bill.
A surge in artificial intelligence is sending US power consumption to record highs in 2026 and 2027, according to the US Energy Information Administration. The EIA, which provides official energy statistics, said power demand will rise from 4,195 billion kilowatt-hours in 2025 to 4,288 billion kWh in 2026 and 4,356 billion kWh in 2027. This increase is largely driven by data centers dedicated to artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency, as well as homes and businesses using more electricity and less fossil fuels for heat and transportation. US wholesale electricity prices are expected to average $52 per megawatt hour in 2026, an 11% increase from 2025, primarily due to extreme weather events. The EIA forecast that power sales will rise to 1,541 billion kWh for residential consumers, 1,549 billion kWh for commercial customers, and 1,055 billion kWh for industrial customers in 2026. As renewable output rises, the share of power generation from coal will decrease, while the share of natural gas will hold steady in 2026 before easing in 2027. The percentage of renewable generation will rise from 24% in 2025 to 25% in 2026 and 27% in 2027. This means your business may see an increase in electricity costs, but also a shift towards more renewable energy sources. On the bright side, who needs a coffee break when you can just plug in your computer and get a boost?