FT Sessions at CERAWeek
23 March 2026 | 17:30 - 20:00 CT
Examining the forces reshaping the energy markets through the FT’s Energy Source newsletter
Panel Discussion and Drinks Reception | Le Méridien, Houston and Online
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping global electricity demand, emerging as one of the most powerful - and least predictable - drivers of load growth. Data centres already account for a meaningful share of global power consumption, and forecasts suggest demand could rise sharply this decade, placing new strain on grids, infrastructure investment and energy markets.
At the same time, recent efficiency breakthroughs have unsettled even the most confident projections. Advances in model design and hardware promise significant reductions in energy intensity, yet they also expose how limited transparency remains around AI’s true power needs. For energy systems built on long planning cycles, the combination of rapid growth, volatile loads and uncertain forecasts presents a fundamental challenge.
This Financial Times event, supported by the FT’s Energy Source newsletter, convenes senior leaders from energy, utilities and technology during CERAWeek for a focused discussion on how AI is reshaping electricity demand. Through a high-level panel and an informal networking reception, participants will explore how grids, markets and policymakers can respond to rising uncertainty- and what this means for investment, resilience and climate ambition.
Join us in:
IN-PERSON PASS
Gain access to the in-person session, meet speakers and network with your peers at the drinks reception.
DIGITAL PASS
Access to the video on demand from 25 March. Network and connect with your peers through our online community.
Key Discussion Points
Efficiency Breakthroughs
Do recent efficiency breakthroughs fundamentally alter the long-term energy outlook, or risk accelerating demand further?
AI Data Centres
How should grids and utilities respond to the extreme load volatility created by AI data centres?
Infrastructure
Who should bear the cost and risk of infrastructure build-out amid such uncertainty?
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