SemiAnalysis: The power gap in AI data centers is widening, and the main technology for power supply after the installation of reciprocating engines or meters is emerging BlockBeats News: On July 21st, SemiAnalysis, an independent research institution for semiconductors and AI, announced that with the rapid growth of demand for artificial intelligence computing power, the power supply model for data centers is undergoing changes. The reciprocating engine, which used to be mainly used for backup power supply in case of grid failures, is gradually being repositioned as the basic power source for all-weather operation. Reciprocating engine manufacturers have signed contracts this year to supply approximately 1GW of off balance sheet power projects, with an expected annual increase of over 4GW in 2027 and 2028. SemiAnalysis has modeled the carrying capacity of the US power grid and pointed out that the existing power surplus is expected to be depleted between 2027 and 2028, and the planned new utility level power generation capacity by 2030 is still insufficient to cover the new load demand brought by data centers. Based on its data center model, SemiAnalysis estimates that there are currently approximately 140GW of potential data center projects that have not yet completed the signing of power supply contracts. These projects may adopt a large number of post meter power supply modes in the future to bypass the bottleneck of grid expansion. SemiAnalysis expects reciprocating engines to account for the largest share of various post metering power supply technologies, including reciprocating engines, aviation derived gas turbines, and fuel cells. The reason is that it combines advantages such as lower cost, rapid deployment, modular expansion, and stronger financing capabilities. At the same time, Caterpillar INNIO、 Cummins and other equipment manufacturers are expanding their production capacity to support large-scale deployment in the coming years. With the continuous expansion of AI data centers, on-site self provided power is transforming from traditional backup facilities to critical energy infrastructure, and reciprocating engines are expected to become an important solution to fill the power gap in the computing age. [Original link]