Data centers are turning to old jet engines as the wait for power grows
AI data centers are using converted jet engines to generate power quickly, bypassing years-long grid connection delays.Summary
Facing years-long waiting lists for grid connections and new turbines, AI data centers are increasingly turning to retired jet engines rebuilt to burn natural gas to generate their own electricity. The main advantage is speed: converted jet engines can have a data center running in about 24 months, compared to roughly seven years to connect 100 megawatts to the grid in Northern Virginia. Companies like Elon Musk's xAI and Crusoe are already using these engines, sourced from ProEnergy, which rebuilds GE engines commonly found on Boeing jets. The Trump administration is encouraging data centers to generate their own power. However, converted jet engines are less efficient and pollute more than conventional gas plant turbines, and more units are needed for the same output, making them likely a short-term solution as efficiency and environmental concerns may grow.
(Source：TechCrunch)