Data centers are turning to old jet engines as the wait for power grows
The years-long wait for access to the grid and new turbines is causing data center builders to turn to an unusual, less-efficient and less environmentally friendly solution: once-discarded jet engines.
TL;DR
- AI data centers are using converted jet engines to generate electricity due to long delays in securing grid connections and new turbines.
- Converted jet engines, sourced from retired aircraft and rebuilt to burn natural gas, offer a faster power solution, with data centers potentially running within 24 months.
- Elon Musk's xAI and OpenAI are among the companies using these converted jet engines.
- The converted engines are less efficient and pollute more than conventional power plant turbines.
- This solution is considered a potential short-term play due to efficiency and environmental concerns.