Catalyst with Shayle Kann

Shayle is joined by Ben Lee, a Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and a visiting researcher at Google, focusing on AI systems. They delve into the shift from centralized AI compute to edge inference, essential for latency-sensitive applications like autonomous vehicles. Ben explains the differences between hyperscale, edge, and on-device computing, emphasizing why training will stay centralized. He also highlights the challenges and potential of local data centers, exploring implications for energy consumption and the future landscape of AI applications.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Modon, co-founder and CEO of Unlimited Industries, sheds light on modernizing EPC projects through AI. He reveals how misaligned incentives and outdated contract structures contribute to cost overruns. Alex argues that treating projects like unique snowflakes stifles learning and efficiency. With his startup's innovative platform, he aims to streamline pre-construction processes and enhance design certainty. With an eye on the future, they plan to deliver their first project next year, revolutionizing the construction industry.

In this discussion, Shanu Mathew, a senior vice president at Lazard with expertise in sustainable equity and energy markets, dives into the complex narratives surrounding AI's power bottleneck. He explores how different players—hyperscalers, chip manufacturers, and utilities—each have unique incentives that shape their messaging about energy scarcity. The conversation reveals why equipment makers thrive on promoting bottlenecks and how the dynamics of power pricing impact various sectors. The insights illuminate the intricate balance of interests in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Rob Gramlich, founder and president of Grid Strategies, discusses the exciting revival of transmission projects in the U.S. with Shayle Kann. They dive into the significance of the recent $8.6 billion SPP plan and the ongoing progress of the Grain Belt Express despite DOE challenges. Rob argues that the DOE's push for faster large-load interconnection is a hopeful sign, but explains why data centers haven't significantly boosted transmission. He also shares insights on permitting reform and innovative solutions to enhance grid capacity.

Rob Black, New Mexico's Economic Development Secretary, and Jim Kenney, the Environment Secretary, discuss their innovative strategies for economic growth. They emphasize a collaborative approach that balances fast-tracked clean energy projects with environmental oversight. The duo highlights their successful initiatives, including a $65 billion sovereign wealth fund and significant investments in water infrastructure. They aim to position New Mexico as a leader in advanced energy, proving that effective government can drive sustainable growth.

Raffi Garabedian, the co-founder and CEO of Electric Hydrogen, dives into the challenges of making green hydrogen cost-effective. He discusses the bubble burst due to political pullbacks and high costs driven by AI demand. Raffi explains the real cost problem involving engineering and construction expenses. He also highlights Electric Hydrogen's choice of supersized electrolyzers and how they aim for fossil parity by the early 2030s in markets like Brazilian fertilizer. The conversation sheds light on market dynamics and the future potential of green hydrogen.

Ekin Dogus Cubuk, co-founder of Periodic Labs and former Google DeepMind researcher, dives into the exciting intersection of AI and materials discovery. He reveals how advancements like OpenAI's O1 model are helping to tackle AI's limitations in predicting beyond its training data. The conversation shifts to the importance of breakthrough discoveries versus incremental ones. Ekin also discusses the synergy between human insight and AI automation, and how Periodic focuses on automated labs to refine experimental hypotheses.

Allison Clements, former FERC commissioner, and Tyler Norris, a doctoral researcher at Duke University, dive into the implications of the DOE's push to fast-track interconnection for large loads. They discuss how this proposal could standardize interconnection procedures and shift jurisdiction from states to federal authority. The conversation covers the potential for hybrid facilities, required durations for load flexibility, and how these changes could both enhance and complicate grid integration. With expert insights, they unveil the future landscape of digital infrastructure.

In this enlightening conversation, Andy Lubershane, Head of Research at Energy Impact Partners, delves into the future of energy shaped by AI-driven electricity demand. He discusses how algorithmic efficiency and off-grid data centers could flip current supply constraints to oversupply. Andy identifies potential winners, like utilities, and losers reliant on cheap energy. He evaluates the prospects of nuclear reactor designs and enhanced geothermal, and explores the challenges facing grid-enhancing technologies, raising critical questions about tomorrow's energy landscape.

K.R. Sridhar, CEO of Bloom Energy and innovator in fuel cell technology, dives into the future of power generation for data centers. He discusses the challenges posed by the rapid growth of AI and the limitations of traditional grids. Sridhar advocates for on-site, off-grid fuel cell solutions that offer speed and sustainability. He emphasizes the shift towards captive power strategies, compares AI-driven needs to other industries, and highlights the importance of carbon capture. The conversation showcases a visionary approach to resilient energy infrastructure.