(The Center Square) – With energy-intensive artificial intelligence, or AI, consuming more electricity than traditional data-center activities, reliability of the electrical grid should be the top priority, according to the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

The Portland, Ore.-based council is a regional organization that develops and maintains a regional power plan and a fish and wildlife program to balance the Northwest’s environment and energy needs. It was created in 1980 when Congress passed the Pacific Northwest Electric Power Planning and Conservation Act.