AI data centers turn to converted jet engines for faster power

AI data center developers facing years-long waits for grid connections and new turbines are installing electricity-generating units rebuilt from retired aircraft engines, the New York Times reported. The engines are modified to run on natural gas and can be deployed faster than some conventional power options, although they are not viewed as permanent power plants.

Rystad Energy analyst Audun Martinsen said the priority is obtaining electricity quickly, estimating that jet-powered units can bring a data center online in 24 months. By contrast, connecting 100 megawatts to the grid in Northern Virginia takes about seven years, according to the International Energy Agency. Mitsubishi Power expects most new power capacity to become available by 2031.

Elon Musk’s xAI has installed eight converted turbines in Mississippi for its Colossus 2 data center in Memphis. OpenAI used gas turbines at its first Stargate site in Abilene, Texas, while Crusoe ordered 13 units from ProEnergy for that campus. Converted engines are less efficient and produce more pollution than turbines designed for conventional gas plants, meaning their use could remain a short-term response as power shortages delay data center projects.