The exponential growth of data centers in the United States is inadvertently extending the operational life of outdated fossil-fuel power plants, research by environmental nonprofits reveals. This trend stalls efforts to transition to a cleaner energy grid and exacerbates pollution levels, hampering environmental progress. Reports from renowned groups like the US PIRG Education Fund, Environment America Research & Policy Center, and Frontier Group align with Earth Day to highlight notable decreases in coal plant retirements, with older plants continuing to emit harmful pollutants. The ongoing rise in data center operations, primarily due to demands from AI and other energy-intensive technologies, significantly increases electricity demand. This increase poses challenges as utility companies opt to keep some fossil-fuel plants in operation longer, instead of retiring them to manage demand spikes. Notable instances, such as in Omaha, showcase where coal-fired power plants had to be kept operational to prevent supply shortages. Further data shows nearly 40% of projected coal closures or fuel transitions by late 2025 remain unrealized, thrusting projections of total coal shutdowns possibly into 2065, rather than 2040 as previously predicted. Meanwhile, gas power generation surges, with considerable new capacities planned, locking the energy sector into decades of reliance on fossil fuels just as renewables are poised for growth. The reports emphasize the environmental and health ramifications of continued emissions, citing increased greenhouse gases and pollutants threatening air quality and public health. Despite calls for enhanced policy measures to boost clean energy support and reduce the environmental footprint of increasing electricity demands, political and administrative decisions continue to pose barriers to progress. These research findings stress the need for systemic shifts to prioritize clean energy initiatives, even as federal policies and priorities skew towards traditional energy sources. With data centers yet to reach their zenith in power consumption, the pressure mounts for stakeholders and policymakers to align energy strategies with sustainable practices to safeguard public well-being and environmental stability.