Virginia’s Power Use Surges 30M MWh as AI Data Centers Grow

Virginia’s Commercial Electricity Consumption Surges by 30 Million MWh Due to AI Data Centers

Commercial electricity demand is rising rapidly across the United States as AI and cloud computing expand. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Virginia recorded one of the largest increases in commercial electricity sales between 2019 and 2025, adding nearly 30 million megawatt-hours (MWh). Only Texas recorded a larger increase.

Virginia has become the world’s largest data center hub. The state attracts operators with its dense fiber-optic network, available land, and reliable power infrastructure. The EIA says the growth is driven mainly by data centers, along with rising electric vehicle adoption and building electrification.

The rapid expansion of AI is pushing electricity demand to record levels. The EIA expects U.S. power consumption to reach new highs in both 2026 and 2027. For the first time, commercial electricity sales are also forecast to exceed residential sales, reflecting the growing impact of data centers on the power grid.

PJM Interconnection, the regional grid operator, expects Virginia’s Dominion service area to see the largest increase in summer peak electricity demand between 2026 and 2030. Data center growth is the main reason behind the forecast. Utilities are preparing for much higher electricity needs over the coming decade.

Electricity demand has already reached record levels in the region. Summer peak load in the Dominion zone climbed to 23,905 MW in 2025, up 23% from 2019. Winter peak load reached 25,413 MW, a 45% increase compared with the 2019–20 winter season. Most of the highest hourly demand records occurred during 2024 and 2025.

Utilities are responding by expanding power generation, transmission lines, battery storage, and demand-response programs. Grid operators are also improving forecasting methods as AI data centers continue to grow and place new demands on the electricity system.

Energy experts say data centers are reshaping U.S. electricity consumption. AI computing, cloud services, and digital infrastructure are expected to remain major drivers of power demand for years to come. Meeting that demand will require continued investment in generation, transmission, and grid reliability across the country.

Sources:

• U.S. Energy Information Administration – 2026
• EIA-930, Hourly Electric Grid Monitor – 2026
• PJM Load Forecast Report – 2026
• Dominion Virginia Power Zone