The energy conversation was driven by increasing policy impact, international progress and challenges, and the need to solve for power challenges. Data centers and AI continue to be a rising and dominating topic in the energy industry, with a recent focus on regulatory challenges (the EPA halting emissions data collection from coal plants) and grid challenges. The increasing conversation about capacity is being driven by the global energy market, including Ukraine’s attacks on Russian oil exports and global AI demand and competition. 

The trades shifted focus away from data centers to the power grid. While the former is not going anywhere, communications and storytelling emphasized solutions for modernizing and stabilizing the grid. Solar and batteries led the way. In the renewable energy arena, countries and companies on the global stage are making significant moves and taking a leadership position. This signals that U.S. renewables industry and companies need a stronger position on their story and direction.

Global conflicts, like the war in Ukraine, are reshaping energy strategies, spotlighting the need for independence, diversification, and collaboration on long-term solutions. At the same time, momentum for renewables is accelerating globally as part of a broader energy security narrative, with India targeting 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030 and Brazil generating over a third of its power from wind and solar sources.

Maharashtra continues to advance clean energy through major investments in solar, wind, and hydrogen, while developing industrial hubs to strengthen national leadership and align with global sustainability goals. At the same time, the U.S. and the U.K. have deepened their nuclear collaboration to enhance energy security, reduce reliance on Russian uranium, and accelerate the development of advanced technologies. This could signal a strategic shift toward nuclear as a cornerstone of future energy policy.