The Promise of AI in Energy: Securing America’s Leadership

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries worldwide, and energy is no exception. With its ability to optimize grid management, enhance equipment reliability and accelerate innovation, AI promises a more efficient, sustainable and secure energy future. However, America’s ability to maintain its leadership in this transformative field is at risk. 

China, our primary geopolitical rival, is rapidly expanding its energy infrastructure to support AI development, while the United States faces significant hurdles—chiefly outdated permitting processes and slow energy deployment. Data centers, the backbone of AI, already consume enormous amounts of power, and domestic energy demand is expected to more than double by 2030. Without swift action to modernize energy infrastructure, America risks ceding both AI and energy leadership to nations with fewer constraints. 

Our latest issue brief, The Promise of AI in Energy, explores how AI can revolutionize every corner of the energy sector—from predictive maintenance to real-time grid optimization and even enhanced cybersecurity. These innovations could expand energy production, reduce emissions and strengthen national security. However, to seize these opportunities, policymakers must act now. 

Key Priorities for Action: 

  1. Streamline Permitting Processes: Modernize outdated systems to accelerate energy infrastructure projects. 
  1. Provide Targeted Incentives: Support the construction of new energy resources that ensure affordability and reliability. 
  1. Invest in AI-Energy Research: Sustain funding for national labs, like Argonne and Oak Ridge, which are driving breakthroughs in AI and energy. 
  1. Foster Strategic Coordination: Leverage the newly formed National Energy Council to align federal AI and energy policies. 

The stakes are clear: American leadership in AI depends on robust, reliable and rapidly deployable energy infrastructure. By embracing an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy and addressing regulatory barriers, we can secure our technological and economic future. 

Learn more in our full issue brief HERE.

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