Google Begins Collecting Distributed Power from U.S. Homes to Power Data Centers

Google has partnered with Voltus to access up to 100 megawatts (MW) of distributed energy resources from the PJM power grid, using smart thermostats and battery systems instead of building new power plants. This approach addresses rising data center power demands, avoiding the 15-year timeline and costs associated with nuclear plant construction. Voltus' platform dynamically manages household devices to balance energy distribution, with participants receiving payments under the contract. While 100 MW represents only part of Google's needs, the agreement reduces reliance on centralized power infrastructure, potentially saving consumers over $10 billion over a decade.