OpenAI launches program to cut data center power use at grid peak
OpenAI launched Grid Protectors, under which its future data centers cut power use when the grid is strained, with a Georgia Power deal covering up to 1,000 MW.
OpenAI launched a national program called Grid Protectors under which its future computing centers reduce their electricity consumption when the grid is under strain, according to the company's announcement.
The program includes a planned center in Effingham County, Georgia, where the company committed to paying the full costs of infrastructure and electricity services.
The company signed an agreement with Georgia Power covering up to 1,000 megawatts of flexible demand response.
The company expects US data center capacity to exceed 100 gigawatts by 2030, according to the announcement.
What do these terms mean?
Demand response: a large consumer reducing its electricity use on request to help balance the grid.
Computing centers: facilities containing thousands of servers used to train and run AI models.
Power grid: the system for generating, transmitting and distributing electricity that supplies homes and facilities.
Megawatt: a unit of electrical power equal to one million watts.
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