Facing Prolonged Grid Connection Queues, AI Data Centers Turn to Repurposed Jet Engines for On-Site Power

Confronted with multi-year grid interconnection delays, some AI data centers are sourcing retired aircraft engines retrofitted to run on natural gas for self-generation, aiming to become operational within 24 months. xAI has installed eight converted turbines in Mississippi to supply power to its Colossus 2 in Memphis, while the Abilene Stargate project—partnered by OpenAI and Crusoe—has ordered 13 similar units. Compared with conventional gas plant turbines, repurposed aero engines are less efficient and produce more emissions, making them primarily a short-term stopgap to bridge the power supply gap.