Data Centers' Energy Demand Drives Gas Use in Northwest, Threatening Emission Goals
In Oregon and Washington, the increasing energy demands of data centers are leading utilities to rely more heavily on gas-powered energy, according to reports from Columbia Riverkeeper and Sightline Institute. This shift is primarily driven by the need to meet the rapid growth in energy consumption by data centers, which are turning to gas generators and purchasing gas-powered electricity from other states. This trend poses a risk to both states' ability to meet their 2050 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. The reports suggest that instead of expanding gas infrastructure, lawmakers could implement policies similar to those in Texas, requiring data centers to reduce power usage during peak demand periods. 
