U.S. manufacturers in Rust Belt regions face steep electricity cost increases as data center growth strains the PJM Interconnection grid, squeezing profit margins for industries like steelmaking and brick production.
The Belden Brick Company in Ohio saw its monthly capacity charge soar from $1,600 to $12,000. The Steel Manufacturers Association reports steel companies in the region are paying tens of millions more annually, with electricity representing 20–40% of steel production costs, undermining President Trump's plan to revive domestic manufacturing.
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