Powering the data center surge

AI may move at digital speed, but the infrastructure behind it does not.

In this episode of Power Onward, Kim talks with Patricia and Dawn about the growing pressure data centers are putting on the power grid. As AI adoption accelerates, data centers are demanding more power than existing infrastructure was ever designed to handle. Patricia and Dawn break down what is driving that surge, why utilities are struggling to keep pace, and how the industry is rethinking the role of power in modern data centers.

The conversation explores how data center operators are adapting in real time through bridge-to-grid strategies, onsite generation, and new approaches to reliability. Patricia and Dawn also share how Cummins is helping customers navigate fast-changing energy demands with dependable power solutions, deep technical expertise, and global support.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why AI growth is reshaping how data centers are powered
• How bridge-to-grid strategies are changing energy planning
• Why reliability and adaptability matter more than ever for data center operators
  
  

Additional Resources:

• Market trends shaping data center strategy in the age of AI
• Beyond innovation: How partnership and integration are powering the data centers of tomorrow
• Addressing constrained grids with onsite generation
• Power Onward podcast: Keeping the cloud and planet online
• Powering data centers at Cummins
  
  

Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe  

Dive into the conversation:

(00:00) This is Power Onward

(01:15) Evolution of data center power

(04:30) Why the grid was not built for AI demand

(06:24) What bridge-to-grid power solutions actually mean

(08:00) How data centers can support the grid during peak demand

(11:26) The ripple effects of data center growth on communities

(15:30) Will AI demand outpace power availability?

(17:00) Why natural gas is becoming part of the conversation

(18:30) Can emerging technologies close the power gap?

(21:00) Power is reshaping where data centers get built

(27:00) The future of data centers and power

What is Power Onward?

Power Onward is the podcast that unveils how power technology shapes your everyday life.

From the tech powering your daily life to the innovations driving industries forward, we talk about it all.

Brought to you by Cummins, each episode explores what’s fueling the future and why it matters for your mission, business, and community.