GridCARE raises $64 million to unlock idle grid capacity for AI data centers

GridCARE raised $64 million in a Series A funding round led by Sutter Hill Ventures, an early Nvidia Corp. investor, as data-center developers and utilities seek faster access to power for AI infrastructure. The round, which also included venture capitalist John Doerr, brings GridCARE’s total funding to $77.5 million. The startup uses AI software to model power-grid conditions and identify underused capacity that could serve large loads without waiting for new generation or transmission projects. GridCARE is working with Portland General Electric Co. on a plan to unlock as much as 400 megawatts of excess capacity in Hillsboro, Oregon, by 2029, potentially serving six data centers. CEO Amit Narayan said the company has $40 million in contracts, about 2 gigawatts in its project pipeline and talks with roughly a dozen U.S. utilities, hyperscalers and data-center operators. He expects contracts to reach at least $60 million by December 31, 2026. The company did not disclose its valuation.