As artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure continue to accelerate, the demand for power is growing faster than ever before. The challenge is no longer simply generating more electricity—it’s ensuring the grid can deliver it reliably, efficiently and affordably.
In this episode of Not Your Father’s Data Center Podcast, Raymond Hawkins, Chief Revenue Officer at Compass Datacenters, sits down with David Porter, Vice President of Electrification and Sustainable Energy Strategy at EPRI (Electric Power Research Institute), to explore how collaboration between utilities and data centers is reshaping the future of the electric grid.
Drawing on decades of experience across the utility sector and EPRI’s science-based research, David explains why data centers have the opportunity to evolve from being viewed solely as large energy consumers into active partners that help strengthen grid reliability. The conversation explores the growing importance of flexible load management, transmission planning, grid-responsive infrastructure and EPRI’s Flex MOSAIC™ framework.
Watch the Episode
Key Takeaways
- Power demand is growing at an unprecedented pace. Data center power requirements have rapidly evolved from kilowatt-scale facilities to campuses requiring gigawatts of capacity.
- The grid wasn’t built for today’s growth. Utilities and developers face significant challenges due to long infrastructure timelines, transmission constraints and increasing demand from AI.
- Data centers can become grid assets. Flexible operations and coordinated planning allow data centers to support grid reliability rather than simply adding load.
- Collaboration is essential. Early engagement between utilities, developers and regulators creates better long-term outcomes for infrastructure planning and community affordability.
- Flexibility unlocks capacity. EPRI’s Flex MOSAIC™ framework provides a standardized approach for evaluating flexible loads and improving how existing grid capacity is utilized.
- Innovation benefits everyone. Smarter coordination between power providers and data center operators can strengthen grid resilience while helping control costs for utilities, businesses and ratepayers.
About the Guest
David Porter
Vice President, Electrification and Sustainable Energy Strategy, EPRI
David Porter leads Electrification and Sustainable Energy Strategy at EPRI, where he helps advance research focused on the future of electricity, grid modernization and large-load integration. With a career spanning mechanical engineering, utility operations and more than 17 years at EPRI, David works closely with utilities, regulators, technology providers and large energy users to develop practical, science-based solutions that improve grid reliability, affordability and resilience.
His work includes initiatives such as DC Flex and Flex MOSAIC™, helping establish collaborative frameworks that enable data centers and utilities to work together in support of a stronger, more flexible electric grid.
