United Utilities

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence data centers is driving up electricity demand across the United States, pushing utilities to build new natural gas plants and solar projects while straining existing power grids. Reports say the surge is reshaping energy planning, as operators scramble to secure reliable power supplies for energy-hungry computing facilities, raising questions about grid capacity, costs and the pace of renewable deployment.

National Grid Partners, the corporate venture arm of UK utility National Grid, is taking on a larger role in shaping the company's technology strategy. The move signals a deeper integration of venture investment into the utility's core operations, with the arm expected to influence decisions on grid innovation, digitalisation and emerging energy technologies across National Grid's business.

US Solar Fund PLC has announced an extension to the exclusivity period in talks over a potential sale of its solar portfolio. The London-listed trust, which invests in utility-scale solar assets in the United States, has been exploring a sale as part of efforts to realise value for shareholders. The announcement was made through a regulatory news service filing.

A new report warns that a warming climate could significantly disrupt energy demand patterns across the Western United States, reshaping when and how much electricity consumers use. The findings suggest utilities and grid planners may face challenges balancing seasonal demand shifts, with implications for reliability and infrastructure planning in the region.

Hydro-Québec, the Canadian provincial utility, is a topic of discussion as analysts debate how much electricity the United States will need by 2030. Growing power demand from data centres and electrification has put cross-border energy suppliers like Quebec's hydro exporter in the spotlight, with commentary on whether existing capacity can meet future needs.

energyRe has closed USD 815 million in financing for a 360 MW solar project in South Carolina. The deal, reported by Renewables Now, marks a significant investment commitment to large-scale renewable energy development in the southeastern United States and adds to a growing pipeline of utility-scale solar capacity in the region.

A newly released report reviews the United Kingdom's capability in In-Situ Resource Utilization technology, the field of using materials found on the Moon or asteroids for space missions. The assessment examines the current state of UK research and industry in this emerging area of space exploration. It is drawing attention among space policy watchers tracking how nations position themselves for lunar resources.