POLITICO Tech How AI is driving Trump’s energy agenda
8 snips
Nov 20, 2025 Dario Gil, the Undersecretary for Science at the U.S. Department of Energy and former IBM research director, dives into the energy demands posed by AI and quantum computing. He highlights the urgent electricity needs for data centers and discusses the ambitious DOE strategy balancing near-term grid upgrades with long-term fusion research. Gil also emphasizes the U.S.-China competition in R&D and the necessity of integrating security in research from the outset. His insights provide a fascinating look at the future of energy policy in a tech-driven world.
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Energy Is The Rate-Limiting Factor For AI
- AI-driven computing is creating urgent new electricity demand that could require ~100 gigawatts of added power soon.
- Dario Gil says energy is the current rate-limiting factor for AI progress and must be addressed now.
Build A Diversified Energy R&D Portfolio
- Invest across horizons: near-term grid solutions, nuclear for density/reliability, and long-term bets like fusion.
- Dario Gil urges the Department of Energy to fund a portfolio spanning immediate needs and future technologies.
Fusion Progress Is Concrete, Not Just Hype
- Dario Gil describes real progress in fusion: new facilities, teams pursuing Q>1, and improved superconducting tapes enabling higher magnetic fields.
- He highlights concrete pilot plant timelines and growing private investment alongside federal efforts.
