Techub News reported that at least 46 AI data centers are planning to build their own natural gas power facilities, with total capacity reaching 56 GW. The projects are designed to bypass lengthy grid connection queues. Major companies including xAI, OpenAI and Meta have already adopted, or plan to adopt, this model.
Grid interconnection waits exceed five years
U.S. grid interconnection queues have now extended to more than five years, giving AI data center developers a direct reason to arrange dedicated power supply. As computing infrastructure expands, these data centers require stable and large-scale electricity, and some developers are linking their facilities directly with self-owned gas generation assets rather than relying solely on the traditional grid connection process.
In 2025, U.S. gas-fired power capacity under construction has risen to nearly 252 GW, with more than one-third connected to data centers. Environmental groups are concerned that the shift will lock in fossil fuel infrastructure for 20 to 30 years, tying the buildout of AI data centers more closely to the expansion of natural gas generation. The original report cited CryptoBriefing.