The artificial intelligence (AI) revolution has unleashed a new front in the battle for energy in 2026. The accelerating expansion of data centers and digital services has transformed the way governments, energy companies and the technology sector approach their strategies. While public discourse insists on a commitment to low-carbon energy, the urgency to supply AI infrastructure is altering those priorities.
AI boom multiplies energy demand
For decades, energy demand in the United States remained stable, however, the massive deployment of artificial intelligence has changed this pattern. Today, energy capacity is being strained by the growth of data centers that require constant and reliable power, raising the need for robust infrastructures.
Dispatchable technologies, such as advanced nuclear and natural gas, have taken center stage over intermittent sources such as solar and wind. AI demands continuity, speed and volume, factors that are tipping the energy balance toward immediate, not necessarily clean, solutions.
United States: energy leadership as a priority
In recent statements, American Petroleum Institute (API) CEO Mike Sommers warned that AI has become a central factor in national energy security. According to the APIAccording to the API, winning this race requires reforming permits, expanding infrastructure, and strengthening the use of hydrocarbons and nuclear.
This approach is in line with the Trump administration, which promotes a policy focused on energy affordability. The official stance prioritizes abundant and cheap fuels, such as gas, over perceived costly climate regulations.
LNG2026: AI and energy dominate the global agenda
At the conference LNG 2026conference, held in Doha, Qatar, reflected this new landscape. The event brought together global liquefied natural gas (LNG) leaders and addressed how the rise of artificial intelligence is reshaping the role of LNG as a bridging energy.
The event’s slogan, “Leading Power Today and Tomorrow,” fits the current moment: technological pressure is accelerating decisions that combine energy pragmatism with still-fuzzy climate promises.
Bridging technologies or transition solutions?
Companies such as Bloom Energy are capturing the industry’s interest. Their fuel cell technology, capable of operating on natural gas and potentially low low carbon fuels, is emerging as a viable option for powering data centers.is emerging as a viable option for powering data centers.
With the gas turbine supply chain under pressure, these modular solutions could facilitate rapid energy expansion while working towards a future decarbonization goal.
The energy paradox of the 21st century
While the dominant narrative speaks of sustainability and emissions reduction, the reality is that most current investments are aimed at meeting AI energy demand, not reducing it. In this sense, carbon is not a priority for many technologies, although it is part of the discourse.
Energy sector experts warn that we may be entering an “infrastructure bubble“, with investments driven by technological enthusiasm rather than long-term sustainable analysis.
In conclusion, 2026 marks a turning point where artificial intelligence is no longer a digital tool but a geopolitical, economic and energy force. The question is no longer whether AI will transform the world, but how to supply its growing thirst for energy without compromising global climate goals.
Source: Wood Mackenzie