EU asks households to cut peak electricity as AI data centres strain grids

The European Commission is asking households to reduce electricity use during peak hours because AI data centres are straining power grids. The Commission published a Data Centre Energy Efficiency Package on 3 June with ratings and minimum performance standards. Ireland's data centres consume 22% of national electricity and regional bills could rise 20 to 40%. US utilities plan $1.4 trillion in grid upgrades by 2030 to meet AI demand, highlighting similar challenges in Europe.