Woofun AI reports that data centers are transitioning reciprocating engines from emergency backup to primary round-the-clock power sources to address grid capacity limits.

This shift supports the massive electricity demand generated by AI computing expansion.

Woofun AI data shows that manufacturers such as Caterpillar, INNIO, and Cummins have secured approximately 1 GW in behind-the-meter project orders this year. Order volumes are projected to exceed 4 GW annually in 2027 and 2028. Analysis indicates that existing power supply margins will be exhausted between 2027 and 2028, with planned utility-scale generation through 2030 insufficient to meet data center load growth. Approximately 140 GW of identified data center projects require new power supply contracts, with reciprocating engines expected to capture the largest share due to their balance of cost, deployment speed, and commercial maturity compared to fuel cells and aeroderivative gas turbines.