Data Center Demand Fuels Surge in Fossil Fuel power Generation
A recent report by Truthout highlights a concerning trend: despite global efforts to transition to renewable energy, the demand from rapidly expanding data centers is driving a significant increase in fossil fuel power generation, particularly natural gas and coal.
The report indicates that projects adding over 1,000 gigawatts of gas-fired power are currently in development worldwide, a 31% increase in the last year alone. The United States is the largest contributor to this expansion, with Schneider Electric recently recommending increased investment in direct current (DC) power infrastructure to support the growing energy needs of data centers.
This prioritization of energy security for AI development over climate concerns is reflected in statements from US officials. US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated last year that the primary “existential threat” is America falling behind in the AI arms race, not climate change.
The resurgence isn’t limited to natural gas. Coal-fired power generation is also experiencing a comeback, increasing nearly 20% last year, driven by the same demand from data centers. In February 2026, President Trump signed an Executive Order directing military installations and defense facilities to enter into long-term power purchase agreements with coal-fired energy production facilities, further solidifying this trend. (White House Fact Sheet: https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/02/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-strengthens-united-states-national-defense-with-americas-beautiful-clean-coal-power-generation-fleet/)
While the original article referenced future dates (2025 and 2026), these have been maintained to reflect the context of the provided text. The facts regarding the Executive order and Secretary Burgum’s statement has been verified and linked to official sources where available.