Powering the Future: The Energy Demands Behind AI Innovation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) doesn’t operate on code alone—it requires massive amounts of energy to power the data centers and infrastructure that fuel its growth. As AI applications become increasingly sophisticated and widespread, the demand for electricity is soaring, creating a critical bottleneck that the tech industry must urgently address. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, the Smart Systems Stage will focus on the convergence of energy, infrastructure, and technology—highlighting everything from breakthroughs in fusion energy to the challenges AI is placing on power grids worldwide.
From October 13-15, the Moscone Center in San Francisco will host leaders from top energy innovators such as Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Helion, Inertia, Bloom Energy, and more. These experts will delve into what it truly takes to power the next decade of innovation, from commercial fusion’s promising path to the urgent need for modernizing aging electrical grids. They will also explore how data center operators are racing to secure reliable electricity to keep pace with AI’s exponential growth.
This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with pioneering minds tackling the complex intersection of energy and technology. Tickets remain available at discounted rates for founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts—so be sure to grab your ticket here before the current pricing window closes.
Bringing Fusion to the Grid
Fusion energy, long heralded as the holy grail of clean power, is moving closer to commercial viability. Leaders from Commonwealth Fusion Systems and Helion will discuss the scientific and engineering breakthroughs that are propelling fusion forward, the remaining hurdles to overcome, and the timeline for integrating fusion into the power grid at scale. Their insights shed light on how fusion could transform global energy systems, providing a near-limitless, carbon-free power source capable of meeting the skyrocketing demands of AI and other technologies.
Featuring David Kirtley, CEO of Helion, and Brandon Sorbom, Chief Science Officer at Commonwealth Fusion Systems
How Twilio’s Founder Is Tackling the Power Problem
Jeff Lawson, CEO of Inertia, brings a unique perspective as a serial entrepreneur who scaled Twilio into a communications powerhouse before turning his attention to fusion energy. In a candid fireside chat, Lawson will share how his experience building a high-growth tech company informs his approach to the complex engineering, talent acquisition, and timeline challenges faced by one of the world’s best-funded fusion startups. His journey highlights the interplay between innovative business leadership and cutting-edge energy technology.
Featuring Jeff Lawson, CEO of Inertia
Rewiring the Grid for the Electric Age
The global shift toward electrification—driven by AI, electric vehicles, and renewable energy—has created unprecedented demand on existing power grids. This panel will examine what it takes to modernize these critical systems, where investment is heading, and how utilities, startups, and technology providers are collaborating to build a more resilient and flexible grid. With infrastructure aging rapidly, these efforts are vital to ensure that energy delivery keeps pace with technological and economic growth.
Featuring Drew Baglino, Founder & CEO of Heron Power; Apoorv Bhargava, CEO and Co-founder of WeaveGrid; and additional speakers to be announced
AI’s Power Problem
As AI’s computational requirements soar, data center operators and energy providers face mounting pressure to secure sufficient power and expand capacity. This panel will explore how industry leaders are innovating to avoid power shortages that could stall AI’s next wave of breakthroughs. Discussions will focus on strategies for energy efficiency, infrastructure expansion, and the delicate balance between sustainability and scaling AI capabilities.
Featuring Sara Spangelo, President & Co-Founder of Ambrosia Energy; Bill Thayer, SVP and Head of Datacenter Solutions at Bloom Energy; and other speakers to be announced
Whether you are a founder developing the next big energy innovation, a utility executive rethinking grid infrastructure, or simply seeking to understand the real constraints on AI’s growth, the Smart Systems Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 offers a comprehensive, expert-led look at the forces shaping our energy future. Beyond these sessions, attendees gain full access to every stage, networking opportunities, side events, and a vibrant community of startups and investors.
Don’t miss this chance to engage with the critical conversations powering tomorrow’s technology—register today!
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