# Power Infrastructure

China has significantly more slack in its power grid, with massive overcapacity that can be directed toward AI data centers. The US faces grid constraints that limit rapid AI infrastructure scaling.

**Measure:** Available Grid Capacity (Power Overhang) for AI Data Centers

**US & Allies Score:** 3.0/10  
**China Score:** 9.0/10  
**Leader:** China

## Key Metrics

- **Power overhang:** Available Capacity = Dispatchable surplus after reserves + operational constraints
- **Net nuclear change:** Net Added GW = New nuclear capacity commissioned − retirements

## What matters in this layer

Power availability sets the ceiling for AI compute scaling. Permitting, grid capacity, and generation mix determine what can actually be built and operated.

### Interconnection queues

Delays for new large loads and generation create a practical ceiling even when projects are funded and equipment exists.

### Firming and reliability

AI clusters need predictable, high-uptime power. Dispatchable capacity and grid stability matter more than annual averages.

### Time-to-build

Permitting, transmission buildout, and supply chains for transformers and switchgear set the pace of scaling.

### Geography

Compute wants cheap power and cooling, but constraints are local. Regional bottlenecks can dominate national totals.

## Recent Developments

### China's Grid Overcapacity Enables AI Expansion
*2 days ago | Infrastructure*

China's massive investment in power generation has created significant overcapacity, with an estimated 400 GW of slack that can be rapidly deployed for AI data centers without major grid upgrades.

### US Data Center Expansion Faces Grid Bottlenecks
*1 week ago | Constraints*

Major US hyperscalers report waiting times of 3-5 years for new power connections, with some projects delayed due to insufficient grid capacity in key regions.

### Nuclear Power Revival for AI
*2 weeks ago | Energy*

Several US tech companies are exploring partnerships with nuclear power providers to secure reliable, carbon-free electricity for AI data centers. Microsoft has signed a deal to restart Three Mile Island.

### China Adds 350 GW of New Capacity Annually
*3 weeks ago | Analysis*

China's annual power capacity additions dwarf all other nations combined, with a mix of coal, renewables, and nuclear providing the foundation for continued AI infrastructure growth.