U.S. electricity consumption projected to reach 4,248 billion kWh in 2026 and 4,379 billion kWh in 2027, setting new records.
Data centers for AI and cryptocurrency, plus broader electrification of heating and transport, are driving most of the demand surge.
Commercial electricity use will overtake residential in 2027; 2026 sales forecast 1,527 billion kWh commercial vs 1,524 billion kWh residential.
Residential electricity prices are expected to rise about 5% in 2026, with slower increases thereafter, especially on the East Coast.