A new study warns that rising electricity use by data centers and cryptocurrency mining could raise power costs and CO2 emissions in the United States by 2030. The researchers estimated future electricity demand and then used a model to see how the power system would respond.
The model focused on electrical generation and checked supply and demand on an hourly basis for 26 regions covering the lower 48 states. The team looked for the least expensive ways to meet the new demand while following existing laws and rules.
The study found that prices could increase in many places and that emissions could grow compared with a future with no data center growth. The authors say regulators and utilities need to plan soon.
Difficult words
- data center — Place with many computers that store information.data centers
- cryptocurrency — Digital money used online and created by algorithms.
- emission — Pollution, especially gases released into the air.emissions
- demand — Amount of electricity people or companies need.
- model — Simple system or program for testing ideas.
- regulator — Official group or person who makes rules.regulators
- utility — Company that provides public services like power.utilities
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think your local utilities should plan now for higher electricity use? Why or why not?
- How would higher electricity prices affect people in your town or home?
- Have you noticed new data centers or mining facilities near you? What do you think about them?
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