Power generation

As energy demand continues to rise, energy providers must harness renewables, nuclear, and conventional sources to meet the growing needs.

What’s going on

As demand for clean energy accelerates—fueled by electrification, AI adoption, and emerging markets—power generators must balance reliability with sustainability. Navigating the net- zero transition means improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and investing in renewable, nuclear and conventional sources to ensure a resilient, low-carbon future.

4 ways generation is changing

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Energy demand is rising

The rapid expansion of AI, cloud computing and data centers is driving unprecedented electricity consumption. By 2028, data centers alone could account for 7% of total U.S. electricity use, rising to as much as 23% by 2033. This surge is pushing utilities and power producers to accelerate investments in new generation capacity and grid upgrades..

Renewable energy is expanding

Wind and solar power are growing rapidly, driven by cost reductions, policy incentives and advances in storage technology. To enhance reliability, investments in large-scale batteries, pumped hydro storage and improved grid integration are helping manage intermittent generation and balance supply with demand.

The Role of Nuclear and SMRs

Nuclear energy is re-emerging as a key player in the clean energy transition, with small modular reactors (SMRs) offering a more flexible and scalable alternative to traditional plants. While regulatory hurdles and high initial costs remain challenges, advancements in reactor technology and federal support are positioning nuclear as a long-term, low-carbon baseload power source.

Dispatchable power is evolving

With coal generation declining, natural gas remains a crucial transition fuel, providing on-demand electricity to stabilize the grid. Meanwhile, hydrogen, advanced biofuels and carbon-capture technologies are emerging as future low-carbon alternatives, ensuring reliable power generation as the energy mix continues to shift.

Leverage AI and machine learning to enhance demand response through energy-demand predictions, personalized responses and real-time, automated load optimization.

39.06%

As of 2022, renewables and nuclear power generation have made up approximately 39.06% of the global electricity production

Optimize existing power plants, diversify into cleaner energy solutions and increase investments in renewable energy and storage. This will ensure consistent supply and modular, scalable capacity for future demand.

Explore opportunities to offer reliable energy supplies—such as natural gas—until renewables can fully achieve zero-emissions power. Emphasize stable rate designs and 24/7 resilient service to ensure predictable operating costs for data centers.

What’s trending in generation

Case Study

When a new-generation nuclear power station is also digital first

EDF Energy’s Hinkley Point C nuclear power station is a ground-breaking example of the energy transition and digital transformation coming together. Learn how EDF embraced the most innovative digital technologies.

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Research Report

Powering the future of US data centers

The data center market is undergoing explosive growth. To overcome infrastructure bottlenecks and keep up with the growing energy demand, electricity providers must commit to business, technology and regulatory innovation.

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