Texas data center to use Cummins natural gas generators
Cummins Inc. announced an agreement to provide natural gas generators for Circe Energy's High-Performance Computing data centers in Texas, including a West Texas campus. These generators will create a scalable, behind-the-meter microgrid solution to address power grid constraints and support growing AI demand. Deliveries are scheduled from 2026 through 2030.
Cummins Inc. has announced a partnership with Circe Energy to supply high-powered, high-efficiency natural gas generator sets for Circe Energy's High-Performance Computing data center projects in Texas, including its West Texas campus. These generators, scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2030, will form a behind-the-meter microgrid solution, providing prime power and reducing reliance on the state's main grid. This initiative addresses the growing power demand in Texas, which is projected to nearly double by 2030, partly due to large users like data centers and AI infrastructure.
The collaboration highlights a trend among data center developers to evaluate on-site power generation to ensure reliability and speed in an era of unprecedented AI demand. Cummins officials emphasize their expanding role in supporting the North American data center market with natural gas-fueled solutions designed to improve grid reliability and offer fast-start response capabilities.
In contrast to Texas's business-friendly environment, the article notes that New York's legislature has approved a one-year moratorium on data center permits, pending signature by Gov. Kathy Hochul. This proposed moratorium would require environmental impact reports, new service classifications for large energy users, and mandates for renewable energy consumption and community benefits from data centers.