Natural gas powers AI data centers as demand for compute surges, outpacing grid growth.

AI data centers are increasingly relying on natural gas power plants built behind the meter due to their fast construction and scalability. Companies like xAI, Kinder Morgan, and Williams Companies highlight growing natural gas demand driven by AI compute needs, despite flat overall U.S. electricity growth. Key producers EQT, Antero Resources, and CNX Resources report strong earnings, while equipment maker GE Vernova sees record orders for gas turbines. The natural gas sector's growth hinges on continued supply, regulatory support, and turbine availability, making it critical as AI compute demand outpaces traditional grid expansion.