NVIDIA, Google and Emerald AI have launched the AI Energy Management Alliance (AEMA), a new coalition to promote flexible AI data centers that won't disrupt electricity grids or require massive taxpayer-funded upgrades. The coalition aims to set standards for data centers that can shift computing workloads, discharge storage and respond to grid contingencies, making them a "controllable resource rather than an inflexible load." In exchange for faster grid connections, AEMA proposes that facilities reduce power usage during peak demand and respond to emergencies. Emerald AI CEO Varun Sivaram noted that new US data centers can wait a decade or more for grid connections, while the grid operates at only 50 percent average utilization.

He argued that if AI data centers were flexible during peak hours, America could unlock 100GW on the existing grid. AEMA will also serve as a lobbying arm, pressing for faster connections in state capitals and Washington in exchange for flexibility commitments. The coalition does not address pollution, noise or community disturbance from data centers.