The problem: The data center frenzy has left energy supply chains even more clogged than my pores. In recent years, the hyperscaler buildout has amplified equipment shortages sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The numbers: Since 2022, the lead time for power transformers has jumped 100%, while the wait for generator step-up transformers has grown 260%. As for gas turbines, the backlog has ballooned by 50-250% since 2022.
The fix? If you ask the White House, more domestic manufacturing is key to fortifying the grid. The industry agrees: For example, Siemens and Hitachi are each investing around $1B to supercharge US equipment production. But in the meantime, some utilities and developers are turning to refurbished equipment.
Molly Glick
Energy Central Team
qui, jul 30
NEWS: Grid equipment waitlists keep growing—but so does manufacturing capacity.
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