QTS

Georgia utility regulators approved an investigation into whether industrial energy consumers, including data centers, are shifting costs to residential customers. The probe, part of a May agreement adjusting cost-passing rules, examines a pricing structure that could raise residential electricity costs by 11% monthly by 2028. Environmental advocates supported the move, while Georgia Power opposed expanding the investigation's scope.

The AI boom is driving a surge in data center construction across the US, with permits for 176 new facilities in 2025 alone. These hyperscale data centers, including projects by Amazon, Microsoft, and QTS, could consume up to 358.8 terawatt-hours annually by 2025, exceeding the electricity use of most US states. Local communities and officials are raising concerns about environmental and economic impacts, particularly in rural areas.

QTS is developing a data center complex in Fayetteville, Georgia, which will consume electricity equivalent to about a million US households. The project is backed by Blackstone and is expected to put a strain on local utility infrastructure. Georgia Power is working to build the necessary infrastructure to meet the increased demand.

Blackstone’s QTS is seeking $2 billion from banks to secure AI power infrastructure. The company, known for its data centers, aims to expand its capabilities in supporting artificial intelligence technologies.