AI Power Needs Threatening US Homes With 'Bad Harmonics': Bloomberg

The rapid proliferation of AI data centers across the US is not only straining the power grid but also introducing a hidden threat to millions of American households: distorted electricity, according to a report published by Bloomberg. This issue, known as "bad harmonics," can damage home appliances and electronics, posing a significant financial burden and safety risk.

An analysis by Bloomberg, utilizing data from approximately 770,000 home sensors, reveals a strong correlation between proximity to data centers and increased harmonic distortion. Over three-quarters of the highest harmonic readings nationwide are found within 50 miles of major data center activity. This trend is observed in both urban and rural areas, highlighting the widespread impact of data center energy consumption.

Harmonics refer to deviations in the electrical wave patterns that deliver power to homes. When these patterns become distorted, it can cause appliances to overheat, motors to malfunction, and even contribute to electrical fires.

"Harmonics are a pretty good canary in the coal mine for early signs of stress and problems," says Bob Marshall, CEO of Whisker Labs Inc., which tracks power quality in real-time using residential sensors.

The analysis, combining data from Whisker Labs and DC Byte, a market intelligence firm, reveals a significant correlation between proximity to data centers and worsening harmonics. Over half of the households experiencing the most severe power distortions are located within 20 miles of major data center activity.

The rapid increase in data center construction, fueled by the AI boom, is placing unprecedented strain on power grids worldwide. This strain is exacerbated by aging infrastructure, extreme weather events, and the increasing electrification of various sectors, such as electric vehicles.

"This is a perfect storm scenario for the grid," says Thomas Coleman, CEO of consultant Structure Energy Solutions. "We are not monitoring and addressing these issues quickly and efficiently enough."

Experts warn that the issue extends beyond simple power outages, as distorted power can damage appliances and increase the risk of electrical fires. Furthermore, poor power quality can lead to flickering lights, brownouts, and blackouts.

The US, being the world's largest operator of data centers, is particularly vulnerable to these problems. Northern Virginia, known as "data center alley," is a prime example, with a disproportionately high number of sensors registering severe harmonic distortions.

While some utilities, such as those serving Chicago and Northern Virginia, dispute the accuracy of the data, experts emphasize the need for increased monitoring and mitigation strategies to protect both consumers and the grid.

"We need to understand those risks," says Hasala Dharmawardena, a senior engineer at the North American Electric Reliability Corp. "We need to make sure we measure [power quality], and that our consumers get the power quality that they deserve."

Several potential solutions are being explored, including the deployment of filters and capacitors near data centers, as well as upgrades to the overall power grid infrastructure. However, the rapid pace of data center expansion presents significant challenges, requiring coordinated efforts from utilities, governments, and industry stakeholders to effectively address the growing problem of power quality degradation.