The U.S. coal plants’ closure phase is reversing as many are repurposed to support the growing electricity demands of AI data centers. Utilizing existing grid interconnections speeds deployment of new power facilities, predominantly natural gas-fired, to meet projected 60% electricity growth by 2050. Although coal plants are a major source of carbon emissions, their infrastructure offers a faster path to reliable energy supply than new sites. Energy firms like Xcel Energy are converting plants to cleaner technologies, balancing AI’s power needs with goals to reduce emissions in the evolving energy landscape.