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U.S. Data Centers Shift to Fossil Fuels Amid Climate Concerns

4/21/2026

26 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Data centers in the United States are increasingly powered by fossil fuels.
The demand for data-center electricity strains transmission grids and slows fossil-fuel plant closures.
Natural gas now supplies over 40% of data center electricity.
Some states pause new constructions to assess environmental impacts.
Critics say climate-policy shifts under U.S. President Donald Trump hinder renewable expansion.

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Story summary

Data centers in the United States are increasingly powered by fossil fuels.
The demand for data-center electricity strains transmission grids and slows fossil-fuel plant closures.
Natural gas now supplies over 40% of data center electricity.
Some states pause new constructions to assess environmental impacts.
Critics say climate-policy shifts under U.S. President Donald Trump hinder renewable expansion.