AI data centres are driving up power bills at America’s Rust Belt factories

Electricity costs for manufacturers in the US Rust Belt, such as the Belden Brick Company, have surged significantly due to rising capacity charges linked to the rapid growth of AI data centres in the region. These data centres consume vast amounts of power, straining the regional grid managed by PJM Interconnection and causing industrial electricity prices to increase faster than residential rates. The situation highlights challenges in grid capacity and the need for infrastructure upgrades to,