Data centers pull coal, PJM reform, and grid software into one fight — August 16, 2026

Evergy’s data-center load push is tied to keeping 2.8 GW of coal online longer, while FERC opens another PJM reform lane and grid-software vendors pitch more capacity from existing wires. The buildout is turning every bottleneck into policy and capital. In this episode: Top stories: 1. In the Midwest, more coal power for data centers | Latitude Media — Latitude Media https://www.latitudemedia.com/news/in-the-midwest-more-coal-power-for-data-centers/ 2. PJM Governance and Stakeholder Reforms; Notice Regarding Dispute Resolution Procedures | 91 FR 52301 — Federal Register https://thefederalregister.org/documents/2026-16522/pjm-governance-and-stakeholder-reforms-notice-regarding-dispute-resolution-procedures 3. Utility Dive explores OATI’s plan to boost transmission capacity — Utility Dive https://www.oati.com/news/powernow-transmission-capacity/ 4. Centuria, ResetData advance AI data centre rollout | Financial Standard — Financial Standard https://www.financialstandard.com.au/news/centuria-resetdata-advance-ai-data-centre-rollout-179813600 5. CVC DIF to acquire leading German data centre operator firstcolo from Cube Infrastructure Managers | CVC — CVC https://www.cvc.com/media/news/2026/cvc-dif-to-acquire-leading-german-data-centre-operator-firstcolo-from-cube-infrastructure-managers/ Follow and rate The Data Center Daily on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Feedback? Email [email protected]