Worth Knowing

Data centers are turning to old jet engines as the wait for power grows

This highlights the severe energy bottleneck slowing the AI infrastructure buildout and the unconventional, polluting workarounds companies are adopting to stay competitive.

Facing multi-year delays for grid connections and new turbines, AI data center operators are turning to retired aircraft engines rebuilt to burn natural gas to generate electricity quickly. Companies including xAI, OpenAI, and Crusoe are deploying these converted jet engines to bring facilities online within two years, despite their lower efficiency and higher emissions.

  • xAI
  • OpenAI
  • Crusoe
  • ProEnergy
  • Microsoft

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