# Data center boom spurs grid modernization, startups say at TechCrunch Disrupt

> Original title: The data center boom has an upside: innovation for the US grid

- Source: TechCrunch · AI
- Published: 2026-10-27T22:55:41.000Z
- Bad Influence: https://badinfluence.news/items/dd1mkq93mvchf8t8t3jd3asng
- Original: https://techcrunch.com/2026/10/27/the-data-center-boom-has-an-upside-innovation-for-the-us-grid/

## Summary

Weavegrid CEO Apoorv Bhargava, Veir CEO Tim Heidel, and Rewiring America VP of policy Kristen Eberhard say the surge in AI data center energy demand creates opportunities to modernize the US grid. Bhargava says Weavegrid's software helps utilities orchestrate new loads to reduce payers' bills, while Veir sells superconductive power lines that carry power five times further than traditional cables with 20 times less space. Veir raised $110 million in a series C round earlier this month.