New gas projects linked to US data centers have the potential to emit more greenhouse gases than Morocco’s annual output. These behind-the-meter power plants, serving companies like OpenAI and Meta, could release over 129 million tons of CO₂ per year, reversing decades of environmental progress.

Michael Thomas from Cleanview calls this a “crazy acceleration” of emissions, fearing we might be stepping back into the hump of fossil fuel reliance. The first notorious example is xAI’s Memphis campus, with turbines generating over 6 million tons of CO₂ per year—equivalent to more than 30 natural gas plants.

Microsoft’s West Texas project could emit as much as Jamaica annually, despite claims from their chief sustainability officer that they are investing in carbon-free electricity. Permits often represent a theoretical scenario, with actual emissions potentially lower but still concerning. Energy researcher Jon Koomey suggests data center emissions might closely match permitted numbers.

The rush to secure power deals is reshaping the landscape of technology and energy, raising questions about sustainability in the AI boom era. As communities grapple with air pollution concerns, the debate over green tech versus fossil fuels intensifies.