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Power Infrastructure

All articles tagged with #power infrastructure

Harwood’s Polaris Forge 2 nears operation as a massive AI data center rises
technology27 days ago

Harwood’s Polaris Forge 2 nears operation as a massive AI data center rises

Applied Digital’s Polaris Forge 2 AI data center in Harwood, ND is nearing completion, comprising two 907,000-square-foot buildings totaling 280 MW and a $3 billion investment. It is on track to become operational by the end of 2026 (with full opening in early 2027), will employ about 200–250 people, and has prompted local protests over electricity use. The company is funding a new substation and upgrades while claiming it will not increase residents’ electric bills; the site features a closed-loop cooling system and AR-assisted maintenance for workers.

Desalination plant hit as US-Iran strikes widen across the Gulf
world2 months ago

Desalination plant hit as US-Iran strikes widen across the Gulf

Escalating US-Iran strikes have damaged critical water and power infrastructure in Iran and Kuwait. A US strike hit a desalination plant in Bonji, disrupting drinking water for about 10,000 people in 20 Iranian villages, while Iran attacked Kuwaiti energy facilities, prompting talk of civilian hardship amid a scorching heatwave. Both sides pressed on with strikes against military targets, the Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, and Tehran says it is suspending parts of prior commitments as the ceasefire framework collapses.

"Mitigating Wildfire Risk: Addressing Climate Change, Aging Power Lines, and Emergency Alert Systems"
environment-energy2 years ago

"Mitigating Wildfire Risk: Addressing Climate Change, Aging Power Lines, and Emergency Alert Systems"

Aging power infrastructure and the impacts of climate change are increasing the risk of utilities starting wildfires, as seen in the case of the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Texas. Many utilities lack the technology to detect overheating power lines, and climate change is exacerbating the risk with drier vegetation and hotter weather. While some utilities are investing in solutions like weather sensors and proactive shutoffs, others are not prioritizing wildfire prevention, which could impact both safety and the affordability of electric bills.