AI data centers could reduce power draw on demand, study says

AI data centers are seen on show at the Mobile World Congress 2026 (Photo by Davide Bonaldo/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) (SOPA Images via Getty Images)

Apparently, AI data centers are capable of sucking less (power, that is). A recent UK trial demonstrated that they can adjust their energy demands dynamically without disrupting critical workloads. This contrasts with data centers' current approach of always-on power draw, which can strain grids and drive up prices for everyone.

Over five days in December 2025, more than 200 simulated "grid events" tested a London data center’s ability to adjust its energy use on the fly. The trial used software from Emerald AI, which was involved in the study. Other partners included NVIDIA ...