Spring 2026

Education Schedule

Power Struggles and Progress: Alignment Between Utilities, Data Center Developers and Communities

May 28, 2025
Gold
Planning and Utility Collaboration , Policy and Regulatory

The rapid expansion of AI-driven data centers is outpacing the development of utility infrastructure, leading to delays and misalignment in project timelines.  Utilities, developers, and communities must proactively collaborate to anticipate future energy demand hotspots, streamline interconnection processes, and optimize infrastructure upgrades.  However, conflicting demands—grid reliability for utilities, speed for developers, and aligning community priorities—necessitate improved stakeholder engagement to align interests and accelerate project approvals. 

From integrated planning and streamlined grid infrastructure upgrades to district heating and cooling, this panel will examine how collaboration and innovation can accelerate project delivery and align the needs of communities, developers, and utilities.  Join us to uncover how technology, policy, and stakeholder alignment can create a more resilient and efficient energy ecosystem to meet the surging energy demands of AI data centers.

Session Sponsored by:

Speakers
Karen Khamou Ornelas
Karen Khamou Ornelas, Director, South Bay Large Load Program Mgmt. - PG&E
Andrew Jacobson
Andrew Jacobson, President, U.S. - Westbank Projects Corp.
Erica Garaffo
Erica Garaffo, Energy Customer Development Lead - City of San José
Moderator
Sam Uyeno
Sam Uyeno, Partner, Energy & Utilities - West Monroe