EPRI is actively engaging in strategic collaborations to address the escalating power demands driven by data center expansion, particularly those supporting artificial intelligence. A key focus involves partnering with entities like Nvidia, Prologis, and InfraPartners to develop smaller, geographically distributed data center designs aimed at improving inference efficiency and deployment speed.
This industry shift necessitates innovative power solutions as traditional utility grid extensions face significant delays. Data center operators are increasingly implementing on-site power generation to circumvent these infrastructure bottlenecks and maintain operational continuity amid surging AI growth.
EPRI is also examining long-term energy solutions, including the potential role of advanced nuclear technology. Discussions highlight the timelines and structural challenges associated with deploying small modular reactors (SMRs) as a viable component of future data center energy strategies.
Overall, EPRI's current activities emphasize immediate operational adaptations, such as distributed infrastructure, alongside long-range planning for substantial, reliable power sources to meet the sector's rapidly increasing energy needs.
Last updated February 7, 2026