Data center operators are installing converted jet engines to generate electricity because waiting for grid connections takes years. xAI placed eight jet-engine turbines in Mississippi to power its Colossus 2 facility. OpenAI used gas turbines at its Stargate site in Abilene, Texas in 2025. The Trump administration is encouraging data centers to produce their own power.
Connecting 100 megawatts to the grid takes seven years, while jet-powered units can be operational in 24 months. Crusoe ordered 13 converted jet engines in April but walked away from a $1.25 billion deal in September. Microsoft pulled out of a UK data center deal after the utility delayed power until the 2030s. These engines are less efficient and pollute more than conventional gas plant turbines.
The rush to self-power highlights a critical infrastructure gap where grid capacity cannot keep up with demand. Data center builders must navigate long delays or accept higher emissions and costs to get online. Organizations planning to build AI infrastructure should prepare for extended timelines or alternative energy solutions to avoid costly grid waiting periods.
