PJM Interconnection, the operator of the largest electrical grid in the United States, says it will temporarily cut power to large data centers and other major users during power shortages. The rule is set to begin in June 2027 and applies to customers using 50 megawatts or more.
The move follows pressure from rapid data center construction and an auction that failed to secure enough new generating capacity. Data centers are expected to use far more electricity over the next decade, and AI workloads are a major driver of that growth.
Customers affected by curtailment would be compensated, similar to other demand-response programs. Still, the policy may push more data centers to build on-site power or rely more heavily on backup generators. The practical consequence is clear: AI infrastructure is no longer just a chip and server problem. It is becoming a grid planning, permitting, and power reliability problem.