May 27-29, 2025 | San Jose, CA

Education Schedule

Data Center Load Growth Outlook

May 28, 2025
Imperial Ballroom
Planning and Utility Collaboration , Sustainability , Policy and Regulatory

Over the past two years, data centers have emerged as a trillion-dollar opportunity, driving significant electricity demand in an increasingly digitized economy. This raises critical questions for policymakers, utilities, and consumer advocates: How much demand will data centers create, and can utilities meet it while achieving clean energy targets and equitable cost allocation? Drawing on real-time insights, this panel will share innovative approaches, from forecasting large loads to managing energization queues, as well as explore solutions like new business strategies, tariffs and technology partnerships. Panelists will also discuss strategies for navigating uncertainties and fostering collaboration to build a clean, affordable and competitive electricity grid.

Speakers
Ann Collier
Ann Collier, Senior Manager, Emerging Technologies - Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA)
Kush Patel
Kush Patel, Senior Partner - Energy & Environmental Economics (E3)
Alyssa Koslow
Alyssa Koslow, Director of Data Center Strategy - Arizona Public Service - APS
Michael Van Dyke
Michael Van Dyke, Director of Public Affairs - STACK Infrastructure