The Acid Age: Chokepoint behind the AI power surge
Nobody can order a smelter to make more of its own exhaust, and the exhaust just became the thing everyone needs
👟Off we go! Today's newsletter has a Smart Brevity count of 1,296 words, 5 minutes.
The 2026 cohort brought together reporters from a range of regional and independent outlets across the world.
A study from the Electric Power Research Institute found that data centers put downward pressure on average electricity prices through 2024. But that might not continue if data center demand outpaces electricity supply.
Data centers face growing local opposition as states impose moratoriums on hyperscale projects and grid connections. Communities can negotiate deals for tax revenue and jobs.
When the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was enacted, a widespread reading was that US power-sector decarbonization had been derailed.