Data centers resort to using old jet engines amid escalating power delays.
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AI Data Centers Turn to Converted Jet Engines Amid Power Supply Delays
The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) has put unprecedented demands on energy supplies, leading some data centers to seek alternative power solutions. As highlighted in a recent New York Times report, numerous AI data centers are turning to converted jet engines to generate electricity due to extensive delays in grid connections and new turbine installations.
A Unique Energy Solution
The jet engines being repurposed are extracted from retired aircraft and refurbished to run on natural gas. While these converted engines may not represent a long-term solution for power generation, they showcase the widening gap between energy demand and supply that accompanies the AI expansion. With data centers facing lengthy waits for traditional power connections, these jet engines offer a quicker alternative.
Rystad Energy analyst Audun Martinsen underscores the urgency of the situation: “It’s all about getting power as fast as possible.” Companies utilizing jet-powered units can set up a data center operation within 24 months, a stark contrast to the seven-year wait for a comparable 100 megawatt grid connection in Northern Virginia, as noted by the International Energy Agency.
Impacts of Power Delays
The significant delays in power capacity development are causing real economic consequences for some data center operators. For instance, Microsoft recently withdrew from a major deal to serve as the anchor customer for Nscale’s data center in Loughton, England, after learning from the local utility that adequate power wouldn’t be available until the early to mid-2030s.
This situation has prompted many companies to explore alternative energy options, even those viewed as unconventional. Elon Musk’s xAI is among the pioneers in this area, having installed eight refurbished jet-engine turbines in Mississippi to support its Colossus 2 data center in Memphis, as confirmed through state permits and satellite imagery. These engines are supplied by ProEnergy, which revitalizes GE engines that are typical in Boeing aircraft.
Following the Trend: Other AI Companies Adopt Jet Engines
In a similar vein, OpenAI adopted gas turbines for its first Stargate site in Abilene, Texas, in 2025, following Musk’s approach. Denver-based Crusoe, a startup focused on AI data centers, is constructing this Abilene facility and placed an order for 13 of ProEnergy’s converted units in April. This demonstrates a growing trend among tech companies relying on adapted machinery to ensure operational efficiency without waiting for traditional power infrastructure.
Interestingly, in September, Crusoe walked away from a $1.25 billion deal to acquire 29 natural gas turbines from Boom Supersonic, a startup involved in developing a supersonic passenger jet. Boom also offers a version of its jet engines as power sources for data centers. Nonetheless, Crusoe confirmed their commitment to utilizing turbine technology, underlining the persistent demand for innovative energy solutions.
Government Influence on Energy Production
In addition to the industry dynamics, political and regulatory factors are driving companies to generate their own power. Currently, the Trump administration is urging data centers to explore self-sustaining electricity solutions, further amplifying the momentum towards unconventional energy sources like converted jet engines.
Evaluating the Trade-Offs
While utilizing converted jet engines provides a solution to immediate power needs, there are notable trade-offs to consider. These engines are typically less efficient and produce more emissions compared to traditional turbines designed for conventional gas power plants. Moreover, it requires multiple jet engines to generate the same amount of energy, leading to increased operational costs and environmental concerns.
Experts emphasize that these issues may limit the long-term viability of using converted jet engines as a primary power source. As conversations surrounding climate change and energy efficiency intensify, operational efficiency and sustainability may become more critical priorities in the coming years.
Conclusion: A Temporary Fix?
In summary, AI data centers are navigating an increasingly complex power landscape. The shift towards converted jet engines demonstrates an immediate response to supply shortages and lengthy connection delays. While this approach may provide a quick fix to energy demands, the efficiency and environmental ramifications will need to be addressed for sustainable growth.
As the technology landscape evolves, companies must remain adaptable, continuously seeking innovative solutions to meet their energy needs while conforming to environmental standards. It will be essential for the industry to balance immediate operational demands with long-term sustainability.
In this rapidly changing environment, moving beyond traditional power generation methods and exploring alternatives like converted jet engines may be crucial for data centers striving to maintain a competitive edge. How this trend develops will be an interesting space to monitor as both technological advancements and environmental considerations shape the future of energy production in the AI sector.
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