In April, researchers at the International Energy Agency projected that electricity consumption from data centers that power AI and cloud computing will more than double by 2030. They'll account for an estimated 9% of U.S. energy usage by that time. For Ohio, this could mean higher energy costs and an electric grid pushed past its limit. But, for Ohio's rural communities, this isn't just a challenge. It's also an opportunity.
As data centers pull a massive amount of energy from the grid, Ohio is pioneering an innovative solution: building "microgrids" at data center sites. Microgrids are small, self-sufficient energy systems that can run independently from the main electrical grid. They generate and store energy onsite using sources including natural gas and renewables. This approach prevents data centers from overwhelming the broader grid during periods of high demand, making the whole grid more resilient.
Ohio is uniquely positioned to scale up microgrid technology. Our state sits atop abundant natural gas reserves, including the Utica and Marcellus shale formations, providing a stable, low-cost fuel source. Ohio's growing renewable energy sector offers further flexibility for powering microgrids in a sustainable way.
Data centers produce substantial heat and carbon dioxide — byproducts typically viewed as waste. Yet, these resources can be repurposed effectively through controlled-environment agriculture, turning them into powerful growth accelerators for local crops. The idea is simple: excess heat from data center operations can warm greenhouses, while carbon dioxide emissions can boost plant growth, creating ideal conditions for high-quality produce.
Read more at Ohio Capital Journey