The US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has ordered grid operators to expedite the processing of power applications from AI data centers. The directive aims to streamline approval timelines for facilities seeking grid connections to support their computational operations.

The order addresses a critical bottleneck in AI infrastructure expansion, where lengthy grid connection application reviews have delayed facility deployments. By accelerating permit processing, the regulator is attempting to align energy infrastructure timelines with the accelerating demand for power from large-scale AI facilities, enabling faster buildout of computational capacity across US regions.