Grid operators and utilities are increasingly asserting control over data center interconnection requests, according to Let's Data Science, as power demand from AI facilities strains transmission capacity across multiple regions. Utilities are imposing stricter interconnection studies, longer queue timelines, and cost-sharing requirements on large load applicants. Several major grid operators have begun rejecting or deferring requests that cannot demonstrate firm power supply commitments. The shift gives grid operators new bargaining power in negotiations with hyperscalers and colocation developers.