More than 100 UK datacentres plan to burn gas to generate electricity

2026-05-18 · Source: AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian · Field: Technology & Digital — Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Environmental Science & Earth Systems · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

More than 100 new datacentres in the UK are planning to burn gas for electricity generation, some on a permanent basis, due to extensive delays in connecting to the National Grid. Stuart Okin, Ofgem's director of cyber regulation and AI, stated that 100GW of datacentre projects are currently awaiting grid connection. Silvia Simon of Future Energy Networks reported over 100 gas connection requests from datacentre operators in the past two years, totaling more than 15 terawatt hours annually, enough to power London for approximately four and a half months. This shift towards gas-fired power, driven by the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure, complicates Britain's Clean Power 2030 climate targets, which aim for less than 5% unabated gas in the electricity system.

Key takeaway

For CTOs and VPs of Engineering evaluating new datacentre deployments in the UK, you must factor in significant National Grid connection delays and the increasing reliance on on-site gas generation. This trend poses substantial risks to your organization's sustainability commitments and could impact long-term operational costs and regulatory compliance. Prioritize energy strategy early, exploring alternatives to grid reliance and assessing the environmental implications of gas-powered solutions.

Key insights

UK datacentres are increasingly turning to gas power due to grid connection delays, jeopardizing climate targets.

Principles

• Grid congestion drives alternative energy sourcing.
• AI demand escalates energy infrastructure strain.

In practice

• Assess grid connection timelines for new projects.
• Evaluate on-site generation options for energy resilience.

Topics

• UK Datacentres
• Gas Power Generation
• National Grid Congestion
• Climate Targets
• AI Energy Demand

Best for: Investor, CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Policy Maker, Director of AI/ML, AI Ethicist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian.