Climate Week NYC special: Can the US electricity system meet the challenges it faces?

The US is entering a new era of electricity demand growth, after two decades of flatlining consumption. It is a shift that has huge implications for consumers, the industry and climate goals. Ed Crooks hosts a special live edition of the podcast, recorded during Climate Week at NYU, to debate the risks and opportunities in this new world for US power.

On the panel:

• Caroline Golin, Global Head of Energy Market Development and Innovation at Google
• Kate Gordon, Chief Executive of California Forward
• Amy Myers Jaffe, Director of NYU's Climate and Sustainability Lab
• Xizhou Zhou, Head of Power Renewables at Wood Mackenzie

Together they discuss the double-edged sword that is AI. It can drive increased efficiency throughout the energy industry, but also creates greatly increased demand electricity. Caroline discusses Google's commitment to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy for its data centers, and advocates for innovative business models to support clean energy goals. Kate explains how extreme heat, electrification, and the push for decarbonization are reshaping energy needs. Balancing economic growth with climate resilience, job creation, and community engagement is a difficult challenge. How can it be done? Xizhou argues that the US has been unprepared for the recent surge in energy needs. How can the nation build out new infrastructure to alleviate the tensions and bottlenecks that are emerging?

Stay tuned for more episodes recorded with special guests from Climate Week NYC. 

Let us know what you think. We’re on X, at @theenergygang. Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any of the Climate Week discussions. Available on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.