Powering the data center surge

Powering the data center surge

AI may move at digital speed, but the infrastructure behind it does not. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim talks with Patricia and Dawn about the growing pressure data centers are putting on the power grid. As AI adoption accelerates, data centers are demanding more power than existing infrastructure was ever designed to handle. Patricia and Dawn break down what is driving that surge, why utilities are struggling to keep pace, and how the industry is rethinking the role of power in modern data centers. The conversation explores how data center operators are adapting in real time through bridge-to-grid strategies, onsite generation, and new approaches to reliability. Patricia and Dawn also share how Cummins is helping customers navigate fast-changing energy demands with dependable power solutions, deep technical expertise, and global support. In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why AI growth is reshaping how data centers are powered * How bridge-to-grid strategies are changing energy planning * Why reliability and adaptability matter more than ever for data center operators Additional Resources: * Market trends shaping data center strategy in the age of AI [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/2026/05/06/market-trends-shaping-data-center-strategy-age-ai] * Beyond innovation: How partnership and integration are powering the data centers of tomorrow [https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/marketwatch/beyond-innovation-how-partnership-and-integration-are-powering-the-data-centers-of-tomorrow/] * Addressing constrained grids with onsite generation [https://mart.cummins.com/imagelibrary/data/assetfiles/0080252.pdf] * Power Onward podcast: Keeping the cloud and planet online [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/2025/10/29/keeping-cloud-and-planet-online] * Powering data centers at Cummins [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/generators/data-centers] Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe [https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe]   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (01:15) Evolution of data center power (04:30) Why the grid was not built for AI demand (06:24) What bridge-to-grid power solutions actually mean (08:00) How data centers can support the grid during peak demand (11:26) The ripple effects of data center growth on communities (15:30) Will AI demand outpace power availability? (17:00) Why natural gas is becoming part of the conversation (18:30) Can emerging technologies close the power gap? (21:00) Power is reshaping where data centers get built (27:00) The future of data centers and power

Rising to the challenge with the 2027 X15

Heavy-duty engines are no strangers to hard work. Every mile, every load, every job depends on performance that holds up in the real world. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim sits down with Adam Whitney, GM Regional Fleet Sales, North America, and Brad Sutton, Executive Director, Powertrain Engineering, to look at what keeps fleets moving and why the X15 continues to earn its place on the road. The conversation moves beyond the engine itself into the full powertrain, where integration, data, and real-time insight shape how trucks perform day to day. Adam shares what customers ask for when they spec a truck and why uptime, fuel efficiency, and total cost of ownership still define success. Brad explains how powertrain integration pushes performance further, from fuel savings to driver safety, and how data is changing the way fleets plan, maintain, and operate. This episode shows how Cummins supports customers across the full lifecycle, from initial spec to long-term optimization. These efforts help fleets move everything from food to fashion — keeping shelves stocked and supply chains flowing. In this episode, you’ll learn: * How predictive diagnostics help fleets plan maintenance before issues disrupt operations * Why full powertrain integration can unlock measurable gains beyond engine limits * How data insights guide fleets to operate equipment more efficiently and safely Additional Resources: * Rising to the challenge: Cummins 2027 X15 [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/on-highway/heavy-duty-truck/2027-x15] * Exploring Cummins X15 [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/2025/02/17/exploring-cummins-2027-x15-engine] * The X15 Legacy: 25 years of innovation [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/2024/10/21/x15-legacy-25-years-innovation] * Cummins takes Forever Rising Tour nationwide after strong customer response [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/releases/2026/03/26/cummins-takes-forever-rising-tour-nationwide-after-strong-customer] * Getting more with less: 2027 Cummins Connected Solutions [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/2025/05/07/getting-more-less-2027-cummins-connected-solutions] * Cummins Engines [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines] Videos: * Cummins 2027 X15 engine walkaround [https://youtu.be/ePYUzfHnU_8?si=eoak2zTBGYwDEW70] * Forever Rising: The 2027 X15 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oieIgFHvxDg] * Forever Rising Tour | Nashville, TN [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oieIgFHvxDg] * Forever Rising Tour | Louisville, KY [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXiObLsPlJw] * Forever Rising Tour | Atlanta, GA [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmzbrvMF9UI] Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe [https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe]   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:13) Why performance matters in real-world operations (01:20) What makes the X15 a trusted platform over time (02:40) What fleets look for when specing a truck (05:00) How predictive diagnostics is changing uptime (06:05) Thinking beyond the engine to full powertrain integration (08:08) Hidden advantages customers may not consider (09:40) How partnership supports fleets across the lifecycle (10:40) Turning data into uptime and cost savings (12:20) Moving from reactive fixes to predictive maintenance (14:40) Helping customers operate equipment more effectively (15:00) What the next generation of powertrain will bring (16:21) Lightning round (17:13) Big idea for this episode

When dependability responds

When firefighters respond, there is no room for hesitation. The equipment behind them has to perform without fail. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim sits down with Chris to explore the powertrain technology behind fire and emergency vehicles. From engines designed for extreme duty cycles to braking systems that bring massive vehicles to a stop, the conversation looks at what keeps these trucks ready at all times. Chris shares how Cummins has supported fire service for nearly a century, starting with one of the first diesel-powered fire trucks and continuing with modern innovations that improve performance, maintenance, and emissions. The discussion also highlights how these vehicles operate as mobile power systems, supporting far more than just transport. Hear how Cummins designs for reliability, supports customers through a strong service network, and continues to improve performance through data, connectivity, and new engine platforms. In this episode, you’ll learn: * How fire trucks operate as multi-function power systems beyond transport * Why reliability and braking performance are critical in emergency response * How connected technology helps keep vehicles in service and ready Additional Resources: * Cummins: Fire and emergency [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/fire-and-emergency] * Cummins 2027 X15 Series [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/on-highway/heavy-duty-truck/2027-x15/specifications] * Cummins X10 [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/products/x10] * Cummins presents new X10 to more than 36,000 fire, rescue service at FDIC [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/releases/2025/04/09/cummins-presents-new-x10-more-36000-fire-rescue-service-fdic] * Cummins brings disc brakes for single rear-drive axles at FDIC International 2026 | Cummins Inc. [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/news/releases/2026/04/16/cummins-brings-disc-brakes-single-rear-drive-axles-fdic-international-2026] * Truck Equipment Manufacturers and Body Builders [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/truck/truck-equipment-manufacturers-and-body-builders] * Fire Pump Drive FAQs [https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/fire-pump-drives/fire-pump-drive-faqs] Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe [https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe]   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:10) Why fire response depends on reliable equipment (00:41) Cummins' history in fire service applications (01:20) What made early diesel fire trucks a step forward (02:00) Why fire trucks act as mobile power systems (03:01) Understanding real-world duty cycles (03:20) Key components that support emergency performance (04:24) New innovations in braking and maintenance (05:05) Meeting stricter emissions with new engine designs (07:00) Support network and connected diagnostics (09:00) What the future of fire apparatus looks like

Season 3: Power moves the world forward

The heartbeat of our modern world is fueled by a constant need for reliable energy.  While the machinery is impressive, the true narrative lies in the human ingenuity and collaborative spirit that turn these technical systems into tools for global advancement. In this third season of Power Onward, Cummins Chair and CEO Jennifer Rumsey invites you to look behind the scenes of the technologies and strategic alliances defining the next era of energy. As we navigate an energy transition that is both intricate and fast-moving, this season focuses on the diverse strategies we are employing to support our partners through every stage of their growth. Progress is a continuous journey, and we are excited to share the stories of those leading the way. Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe [https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe]

Technology meets purpose

Powering paradise comes with significant responsibilities. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim talks with Sherif about how battery energy storage systems (BESS) are changing the way Australia and the Asia Pacific region keep the lights on. From rooftop solar in suburban neighborhoods to remote islands, luxury resorts, and fast-growing data centers, Sherif shares how smarter storage is making energy cleaner, more reliable, and more cost-effective. In this episode, you’ll learn: * How BESS turns daytime solar into evening power for homes, schools, and councils * How hybrid systems can cut diesel fuel use dramatically in remote and island communities * Why data centers now look at BESS as part of core energy strategy, not just backup Additional Resources: * Cummins Microgrids [https://www.cummins.com/generators/microgrids] * Cummins BESS webpage  [https://www.cummins.com/generators/battery-energy-storage-systems] * Why battery storage is now essential to microgrid development [https://www.microgridknowledge.com/videos/video/55296297/why-battery-storage-is-now-essential-to-microgrid-development] * Key tips to help understand battery energy storage systems [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3VyE9r2FEE] * Power Onward podcast: Beyond your average household battery [https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=shared&v=5w2XRHWz0NM] * What are battery energy storage systems? [https://www.cummins.com/news/2024/08/01/what-are-battery-energy-storage-systems-bess] * How BESS is driving grid stability, supporting renewables, and accelerating the Middle East region’s clean energy goals [https://youtu.be/3UtDRkYGLbg?si=8sXgzhDkTFre6C8J] Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe [https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe]   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (01:22) How BESS shows up across APAC (02:33) Energy shifting 101 (04:04) Pairing diesel, solar, and BESS to cut fuel use in remote locations (05:01) A Pacific Island project that unlocks energy independence and steadier power (05:53) How islands are using renewable microgrids as a differentiator (07:06) Data centers, AI, and why batteries now support the digital world (08:16) Where BESS is headed next in APAC (08:54) The human impact behind the tech