The U.S. energy sector is entering what analysts call a new “load growth era” after decades of flat electricity demand, driven by an unprecedented buildout of data centers and LNG export facilities. Natural gas forward curves also are signaling producer confidence in meeting surging demand.

Bar chart titled “Data Center Load Growth” from 2018 to 2027 showing operating capacity, capacity additions, and projects under construction in gigawatts (GW). Operating capacity grows steadily from 11.0 GW in 2018 to 36.6 GW in 2027. Capacity additions range from 1.4 GW to 5.7 GW between 2018 and 2023, then taper to 2.9 GW in 2024. Projects under construction rise sharply from 6.4 GW in 2025 to 20.5 GW in 2027, pushing total projected capacity to 57.0 GW. Source: Yes Energy LLC.

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At A Glance:

20.5 GW in data center load coming by 2027Solar, batteries undercut gas demand growthForward curve hints at adequate gas supply