AI data centers are making electricity costlier for nearby residents

Technology Oct 04, 2025

AI data centers powering tools like ChatGPT are making life a bit pricier for people living near them.
According to a Bloomberg report, wholesale electricity prices in these areas have jumped by up to 267% since 2020, and folks within 80km of a center are seeing noticeable spikes in their monthly bills.

Data centers' energy demand to double by 2035

Baltimore residents have watched their power bills rise by over $17 a month, with another $4 hike expected by 2026.
In Texas, data centers are now the biggest new users of electricity. By 2035, their energy demand is set to double and could make up nearly 10% of all US power use—so the costs of powering AI may keep landing on everyday consumers.