local
Massive AI buildout poses latest inflation threat as consumers pay more for laptops and electricity
By Christopher Rugaber, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 13, 2026
· 5 min read
American consumers — and the Federal Reserve — are being hit with another high-cost headache. The gusher of investment in data centers — likely topping $700 billion this year — to power artificial intelligence has made memory chips, computer processors and other equipment, as well as electricity,...
Key takeaway While it won't be as large a spike as occurred in 2021-2023, when inflation peaked at 9.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
San Antonio residents can expect to feel the pinch of rising inflation as the cost of consumer electronics and electricity increases. The surge in demand for memory chips and other equipment to power artificial intelligence has led to higher prices for laptops, smartphones, and other devices. Locals who rely on these devices for work, education, or daily life will have to budget for the added expense. Furthermore, the increased demand for electricity to power data centers may lead to higher utility bills for San Antonio households and businesses. As the Federal Reserve considers raising interest rates to combat inflation, San Antonio's economy may also be affected, with potential increases in borrowing costs for auto loans, mortgages, and business loans. This could have a ripple effect on the local economy, impacting everything from housing affordability to small business growth. San Antonio's consumers and businesses will need to adapt to these changes and find ways to mitigate the impact of rising costs.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 13, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? American consumers — and the Federal Reserve — are being hit with another high-cost headache. The gusher of investment in data centers — likely topping $700 billion this year — to power artificial intelligence has made memory chips, computer processors and other equipment, as well as electricity,...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 13, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Christopher Rugaber, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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