Gridcare thinks more than 100 GW of data center capacity is hiding in the grid

Hyperscalers and data center developers face challenges in expanding computing power due to long waits for grid connections. To address this, many are turning to costly "behind the meter" power sources. Amit Narayan, CEO of Gridcare, believes there is untapped capacity in the grid. Gridcare, which recently secured $13.5 million in seed funding, uses generative AI to map the grid and identify areas with extra capacity. The company aims to connect data centers with utilities, charging developers based on the megawatts of capacity unlocked.

Gridcare's approach involves analyzing various factors, including fiber optic availability, natural resources, and community sentiment, while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines. The company collaborates with data center developers to identify expansion opportunities and facilitates agreements with utilities. Gridcare's services may require data centers to occasionally rely on backup power or support new grid-scale battery installations. Narayan believes this method can unlock over 100 gigawatts of capacity, potentially involving auctioning access to this newfound capacity.

Key takeaways:

Hyperscalers and data center developers face challenges in securing grid connections, leading them to consider building their own power sources.
Gridcare, founded by Amit Narayan, aims to identify untapped grid capacity and connect data centers with utilities.
Gridcare uses generative AI to forecast grid changes and considers multiple factors like fiber optic availability and community sentiment.
Gridcare charges data centers a fee based on unlocked capacity and believes it can unlock over 100 gigawatts of capacity.

Gridcare thinks more than 100 GW of data center capacity is hiding in the grid | TechCrunch

Key takeaways:

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