A UK trial has shown that AI data centers can dynamically adjust their energy consumption without disrupting operations, potentially easing strain on power grids. Over five days in December 2025, a London facility successfully reduced power draw by up to 40 percent during more than 200 simulated grid events.

Partners including NVIDIA, National Grid, and Emerald AI tested the data center's ability to respond to fluctuating demand. The facility managed to cut its load by 30 percent in just 30 seconds and maintained critical workloads throughout. It even adjusted usage during soccer match halftimes, reducing demand by 10 percent for up to 10 hours.

The trial will inform NVIDIA's plans for a 100MW "power-flexible AI factory" in Virginia. Industry experts suggest that data centers agreeing to curb usage during peak demand could benefit financially through faster grid connection approvals and reduced infrastructure costs.