AI Computing Boom Will Push U.S. Power Needs Higher and Keep Natural Gas in Demand

America's power consumption will hit record levels in 2026 and 2027 because of new AI data centers—the massive computer facilities that run artificial intelligence. Natural gas will fuel 40% of that electricity in both years. The amount of gas burned will actually increase, offsetting cuts to overseas exports. This long-term demand is locked in regardless of weather or economic swings.