NextEra Energy will develop up to 15 gigawatts of new power generation capacity dedicated to serving data centers by 2035, responding to surging demand driven by artificial intelligence. The initiative underscores the growing intersection between energy infrastructure and digital infrastructure.
- NextEra Energy plans to deliver 15 gigawatts of power capacity to data centers by 2035
- The project is driven by rising electricity demand from artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure
- Capacity will be developed through a combination of solar, wind, and grid enhancements
- Initial construction is expected to begin in 2026 across key U.S. states
- The initiative may impact energy affordability and grid planning at the regional level
- Involves collaboration with major tech and cloud computing firms
NextEra Energy, one of the largest energy companies in the United States, has unveiled a long-term commitment to supply 15 gigawatts of dedicated power capacity to data centers by 2035. This expansion is directly tied to the escalating electricity needs of AI-driven data centers, which have become major consumers of grid power. The company’s strategy involves a mix of renewable energy projects, including solar and wind installations, alongside grid modernization efforts to support reliable delivery to high-demand facilities. The 15-gigawatt target represents a significant shift in utility planning, reflecting a strategic pivot to align with the digital economy’s energy demands. This level of capacity is roughly equivalent to powering over 10 million average U.S. homes annually. While the scale highlights the growing influence of data centers on energy markets, it also raises concerns about affordability and grid resilience, as noted by NextEra’s leadership. The project will be deployed across multiple U.S. regions, with initial development expected to begin in 2026. Key focus areas include states with favorable renewable resources and existing data center clusters, such as Texas, Virginia, and Nevada. The initiative is expected to require substantial capital investment and will involve partnerships with major cloud providers and tech firms managing large-scale AI operations. Market participants, including energy traders, infrastructure investors, and grid operators, are closely monitoring the rollout. The move could accelerate investment in clean energy infrastructure while also increasing pressure on regulatory bodies to ensure equitable access and prevent rate hikes for residential consumers.