Lazard reports that the cost of generating electricity from natural gas-fired power plants in the United States is at its highest level in at least 17 years. Both outlets covering the report say the measure is already elevated and is expected to increase further. The projected rise is linked to strengthening electricity demand associated with the growth of new data centers. As data centers expand, they require additional power capacity, which can intensify demand pressures in electricity markets. Lazard’s assessment indicates that current gas-power economics are under strain and that upward movement is likely to continue if demand growth persists. While the specific drivers behind the higher costs are not detailed in the provided excerpts, the shared takeaway is that gas-based generation is becoming more expensive and that demand growth from data center construction and expansion is a key factor expected to push costs higher. The reports therefore present a consistent picture: US gas-power costs are at a multi-decade peak baseline and face additional upward pressure ahead.