AI boom drives data center energy surge, industry leaders discuss grid modernization at TechCrunch Disrupt

The AI boom has triggered a massive surge in energy demand across the US, putting stress on the aging power grid. Industry leaders including Apoorv Bhargava of Weavegrid, Tim Heidel of Veir, and Kristen Eberhard of Rewiring America discussed at TechCrunch Disrupt how new energy connections from data centers, EVs, and heat pumps are creating both challenges and opportunities for grid modernization. While short-term concerns include rising electricity bills and long-term risks of outages, the influx of new technologies and funding—such as Veir's $110 million Series C round—is accelerating innovation in grid infrastructure and load management.