PJM, a major U.S. power grid operator, has revised down its near-term electricity demand forecast. The adjustment comes as stricter vetting procedures for data center projects take effect alongside broader economic uncertainties. Tighter scrutiny on data center approvals reflects growing concerns about infrastructure capacity and grid stability. These developments are shaping energy availability and costs for compute-intensive operations—critical factors for cryptocurrency mining and decentralized infrastructure. The softer economic outlook further tempers expectations for immediate demand surge. Industry observers are watching how regulatory frameworks and energy constraints will influence the expansion of data center networks across North America.