Episode 77: The 100 GW Power Gap Reshaping Data Center Construction

Bank of America's Global Research Report projects a U.S. electricity supply gap exceeding 100 GW through 2030, driven by AI data center buildout that could add roughly 125 GW of new electric load. With large gas turbines sold out through 2030 and transmission projects taking decades, the report signals a structural shift in how data center developers will source power — and what that means for anyone financing or building at scale. Key Takeaways: BofA forecasts the U.S. needs 230+ GW of new generating capacity through 2030; regulated utilities are expected to deliver only ~93 GW of accredited supply — leaving a gap of 100+ GW. Data centers alone could add roughly 125 GW of U.S. electric load by 2030, pushing compound annual electricity demand growth to 4.1% from 2026–2030. Large gas turbines are largely sold out through 2030, accelerating adoption of natural gas reciprocating engines from Caterpillar, INNIO, Rolls-Royce, and Wärtsilä. More than 7.5 GW of data center projects with onsite behind-the-meter generation are already under construction; 60+ GW more are in pre-construction. Coal plant retirements are being delayed or canceled in at least seven states — Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Utah, Kansas, Nebraska, and Mississippi — to preserve dispatchable capacity. The Champlain Hudson Power Express took 16 years from planning to energization, illustrating why transmission cannot solve a near-term supply crisis. A 10% rise in real electricity prices typically reduces consumption by only 1–2%, meaning price signals alone won't meaningfully close the supply gap. For developers, GCs, and capital partners tied to data center or industrial construction, behind-the-meter generation is moving from a niche strategy to a mainstream site requirement. The 60+ GW pre-construction pipeline of onsite-generation projects represents real near-term procurement pressure on gas engine manufacturers, permitting capacity, and interconnection queues. Teams evaluating sites in 2026 and 2027 need to underwrite power availability — not just power cost — as a primary constraint. Subscribe to Built Different for daily updates on Modular construction reality.