AI power needs threaten U.S. households

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America’s AI aspirations are threatening billions in damages for U.S. households.

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New analysis shows that ¾ of highly distorted power readings nationwide are within 50 miles of significant data center activity. The problem is felt especially in places like Chicago, where nearly half of homes have power quality issues, and “data center alley” in Virginia.

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The term for the issue is “bad harmonics.” Bad harmonics can force electronics to malfunction, refrigerators and air conditioners to rattle, and can lead to sparks, fires, and other downstream problems. U.S. Census data shows that 3.7 million Americans live in the most impacted areas, and the issue can total billions in damages.

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Harmonic issues seen today are likely to worsen. The nation’s demand for electricity is expected to increase by 16% in the next five years, primarily driven by new data centers.

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Zillow added a new feature to show new homes' vulnerability to extreme climate events; harmonic readings might be next.