US Gas-Fired Power Capacity Surges on AI Boom 2026

The US gas-fired power capacity is surging dramatically, driven by the artificial intelligence (AI) boom, according to a new analysis that reveals the country is building twice as much as China. This unprecedented buildout of fossil fuel infrastructure is raising concerns about its impact on global emissions and the energy transition.

US Leads Global Gas-Fired Power Construction

Global Energy Monitor (Gem) reports that the US has overtaken China in the construction of new gas-fired power generation for the first time in decades. The analysis shows a stunning 76% increase in under-construction projects during the first half of this year, making the US the world leader in gas capacity additions.

When including announced and pre-construction phases, the US is building nearly three times as much gas capacity as China. Since January, the total gas power capacity in development has ballooned by 50%, from 252GW to 378GW—now representing a third of the global total.

Datacenter Demand Drives the Surge

Around half of the new capacity is directly linked to the rapid expansion of datacenters that require massive electricity to power AI technologies. This demand is outpacing the growth of renewable energy, leading utilities to rely on natural gas as a bridge fuel, despite its planet-heating emissions.

If all these projects are completed, the US would increase its gas fleet by roughly two-thirds, at a capital cost exceeding $647 billion. This investment underscores the scale of the AI-driven energy appetite.

Comparison: US vs. China Gas Buildout

The table highlights the stark reversal, with the US now outpacing China in gas-fired power development. This shift is largely due to the AI datacenter frenzy, while China's slower growth reflects its earlier buildout and a focus on renewables.

Key Takeaways for Energy Utilities

• AI demand is reshaping energy markets, accelerating gas infrastructure investments.
• Emissions risk: The new gas capacity could add significant CO2, undermining climate goals.
• Cost implications: Over $647 billion in capital investment signals long-term commitment to fossil fuels.
• Renewable gap: Gas is filling the gap left by insufficient renewable deployment.

Utilities and policymakers face a critical choice: continue betting on gas to meet AI demand or accelerate clean energy integration to avoid locking in emissions.

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