OpenAI Launches Grid Protectors Program to Ease Data Center Power Demand

OpenAI also said the flexibility could allow new data centers to connect to the grid and begin operating sooner, rather than waiting for additional power sources to be built. In a blog post cited by Tom's Hardware, the company said its goal is to make campus flexibility a resource that utilities can draw on when communities need it, and that it intends to make this kind of flexibility a core part of how it builds and operates future campuses.

Tom's Hardware reported that OpenAI is testing the program in Georgia. Electricity use is among the most common concerns raised by residents when data centers are proposed in their areas.

Germany's Conlio secured €6.4 million for freight financial automation, while Portugal's Granter raised €1.6 million for its funding-application platform.