The surge in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure has turned data centers into the fastest-growing source of new electricity demand in North America. Grid operators and policymakers are racing to keep up, and for energy providers, this wave of demand could open new frontiers of opportunity. Challenge 1: Capacity bottlenecks Data center developers are demanding power within tight timelines, while interconnection queues for new generation and transmission projects can stretch for years. Some operators are now building private…