Off-grid data center gas power emits 63-80% more than the grid
2C_ornot2C · x · 2026-10-27
Zeke Hausfather analyzes why data centers rushing to power are installing inefficient off-grid gas generation: reciprocating engines (34% of planned capacity) emit 736 kg CO₂e/MWh and simple-cycle turbines (46%) 705, versus 432 for the US grid average — a 63-80% premium driven by upstream methane leaks and unburned methane slip. An estimated 50 GW of new behind-the-meter gas could yield 380 Mt CO₂e over 18 months. He advocates grid connection mandates (e.g. BAAJA) over off-grid generators.
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