How Utilities and Investors Can Balance AI and its Energy Use

By 2030, AI-driven data centers could consume up to 9% of U.S. electricity generation—equivalent to powering 40 million homes—raising serious concerns about AI’s role in the climate crisis. Yet, AI is also a powerful tool in accelerating decarbonization by analyzing energy use, predicting demand, and optimizing renewable integration. In this session, Pradeep Tagare, VP of Investments at National Grid Partners, explores how we can harness AI to meet net zero goals without compromising them. He’ll share why utilities and cleantech companies must integrate AI thoughtfully, how to curb its energy demands through smarter model training and deployment, and why balancing innovation with sustainability is critical for the future of the grid.