Powering AI Without Locking in Emissions: Decision-Ready Life-Cycle and Techno-Economic Analysis of Data-Center–Anchored Decarbonization and Carbon Removal
Artificial intelligence is driving rapid expansion of data centers, now among the fastest-growing sources of electricity demand in the United States. In many regions, this growth is met by natural gas generation, raising concerns about greenhouse gas emissions lock-in, water use, and rising electricity costs for households. At the same time, leading technology companies—including Google, Microsoft, and Meta—are among the largest voluntary purchasers of carbon dioxide removal (CDR), positioning them as influential actors in shaping decarbonization pathways.
This project examines whether AI-driven data center growth can be aligned with climate goals rather than undermining them. By evaluating data centers as anchor customers capable of financing and de-risking decarbonization and carbon removal, the project aims to deliver policy-relevant insights to protect ratepayers while providing strategies to accelerate clean energy deployment.
Jennifer Wilcox
Presidential Distinguished ProfessorJen Wilcox is Presidential Distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering and Energy Policy. She previously served as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management at the Department of Energy.
