Data Centers Face Power Cuts | San Diego News

The Imperial Irrigation District just slapped new rules on big energy users — data centers are now first in line for power cuts during peak demand. With AI fueling a boom in massive data center projects, the IID is forcing these power-hungry facilities to pay for grid upgrades, commit to 15 years of service, and face steep fees — all to protect regular customers from skyrocketing bills and grid instability. One proposed project alone could gulp more power than the whole county uses. The move, backed unanimously by the board, also targets any customer needing over 20 megawatts — not just data centers — with hefty deposits and mandatory infrastructure costs. Critics say it’s fair, while a developer sues over water rights and rate hikes, accusing the IID of ignoring local voices — and the IID blames local officials for poor leadership. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.kpbs.org/news/environment/2026/09/16/imperial-valley-utility-adopts-new-pricing-rules-putting-data-centers-first-for-power-cuts More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4bef9221e5febe65 Report issues to [email protected].