# Data centers could face temporary power cuts to prevent blackouts on largest US grid

Operators of the largest US power grid are considering temporary power cuts to data centers to prevent widespread blackouts during peak demand. The measure addresses surging electricity consumption from AI and cloud computing, which strains grid reliability. This underscores the growing tension between digital infrastructure expansion and energy capacity.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### Technology
- [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2026/07/28/data-centers-may-face-temporary-power-cuts-to-prevent-blackouts-on-largest-us-grid/) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 15:42:26 +0000

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/jul/29/datacentre-projects-fees-grid-access-connection-queue-ofgem) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 07:42:01 GMT