MISO Projects 35% Load Increase by 2035 Due to Data Center Expansion
MISO anticipates a 35% rise in electricity load by 2035, largely driven by data center growth. By 2026-2027, 8 to 14 GW of new data center capacity is expected, underscoring a significant shift in energy demand patterns.

MISO forecasts a 35% rise in load by 2035, with data centers projected to account for 20% of the grid's electricity by 2030 and 25% by 2040. The grid operator estimates that 8 to 14 GW of new data center capacity will be operational by 2026-2027, marking a critical indicator of demand growth.
The central region, including Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, will see the majority of this growth with an annual increase of 2.7%. Utilities are urged to adopt dynamic planning models to manage the evolving landscape and mitigate risks associated with speculative versus committed loads. MISO identifies high confidence projects as those with interconnection agreements and active construction.




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