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Are AI Data Centers the New Power Centers?

October 23, 2025 • Sean McMahon • Season 4 • Episode 9

Sponsored by: EDF power solutions -- Info@EDF-re.com

One of the hottest topics these days -- not just in the energy sector, but across the entire economy -- is the anticipated energy demand from AI data centers. In an effort to separate the signal from the noise, Jeffrey Jakubiak, a partner at Vinson & Elkins, stops by the show to share his insights on the specific load demands AI data centers place on the grid. Perhaps most importantly, Jeffrey also discusses whether or not the US will be able to overcome a smorgasbord of challenges in order to build out enough generation capacity to meet that demand.

One tactic many big tech firms are embracing is colocation. Amid the new 'Bring Your Own Power' (BYOP) environment, Jeffrey and I ponder one possible long-term impact on the grid: Will data centers become power centers?

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