US power demand to reach new highs through 2027, EIA says

The United States is expected to see electricity consumption reach new record levels through 2027, according to projections from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). The agency attributes this growth to expanding data center operations, particularly those supporting artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency activities, as well as increased electrification across various sectors, including heating and transportation.

In 2026, power demand is forecasted to reach 4,268 billion kilowatt-hours, with an even higher projection of 4,391 billion kWh in 2027, surpassing the 2025 record of 4,195 billion kWh. The EIA has adjusted its forecast for Texas, anticipating a 6% growth in electricity demand for the year, down from the previously projected 14%.

Projections indicate that residential power sales will slightly decline to 1,514 billion kWh in 2026, while commercial sales are expected to rise to 1,545 billion kWh. Industrial sales will remain steady at 1,064 billion kWh. The share of electricity generated from coal is projected to decrease from 17% in 2025 to 15% in 2027, while natural gas will maintain a 40% share throughout the period.

Renewable energy's contribution to power generation is expected to rise from 24% in 2025 to 27% in 2027, with nuclear power holding steady at 18% in both 2026 and 2027.

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