An Electrified U.S. Economy Demands Bold Actions and Clear Messaging from the Power Sector
The U.S. economy can only grow as fast as it can be powered. Our economic ambitions to lead in artificial intelligence, to onshore manufacturing, and to ensure energy independence and security all depend on one thing: more electricity.
At the 2025 EEI Annual Meeting in New Orleans, technology, energy and political leaders delivered a clear message to the power sector: move faster or risk falling behind. Future success will depend on innovation, collaboration, and clear communication as the power sector reinforces its role in U.S. economic growth and competitiveness.
Innovation as an Imperative Economic Narrative
Oracle CEO Safra Catz set the stakes bluntly: “You are deciding your future right now. You are going to be asked to take more risk, move more quickly and invest a lot more.”
Her message was clear: AI-driven industries depend on reliable electricity. The power sector must position itself as the foundation of economic and technological advancement while shifting public perception. "You’ve been consistent. You’ve been dependable. Now, you’re being asked to be bold," she said.
Vibhu Kaushik, Head of Worldwide Energy at Amazon Web Services, reinforced this urgency: “Utilities must rethink how they operate. The traditional model of energy delivery is evolving, and those who fail to integrate AI, cloud computing and automation will struggle to keep up.”
Communications must highlight how transformative investments support economic growth, enhance security, improve grid efficiency and ultimately lower costs. The industry’s ability to effectively make this case to regulators, customers, public officials and other stakeholders will determine its ability to evolve faster than it has in the past.
Collaboration is Critical
Unprecedented demand growth isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s political, economic, and social. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry emphasized why a collaborative approach is essential.
“We cannot afford to work in silos. Whether it’s grid modernization, affordability or resilience, government, industry, and innovators must work together to maintain reliability while meeting growing demand,” Landry said.
Landry also highlighted the importance of regional partnerships. "States must collaborate on energy solutions. The demand surge we’re seeing isn’t confined to one region—it’s a national challenge. We need to share best practices, streamline regulatory approvals and ensure that investments are made where they’re needed most."
Landry pointed to regional partnerships and public-private collaborations as key models for success. Sharing best practices, streamlining regulatory approvals and targeting investments effectively will determine whether the sector can keep pace with demand.
"The energy transition is happening now, and it’s happening fast. If we don’t work together—across industries, states, and sectors—we risk falling behind."
Communication as a Competitive Advantage
Strategic messaging will determine the industry’s ability to thrive during this period of unprecedented challenge and opportunity. Power sector leaders must control the narrative about the industry’s ability to innovate and meet the energy demands of the future, reinforcing these key themes:
Innovation is a necessity, not a risk.
Infrastructure investment is critical for economic growth, competitiveness and security.
Collaboration is the only path forward.
The stories told today will shape the power sector’s economic position tomorrow. The industry’s role in enabling AI-driven growth and national resilience must be communicated strategically and effectively—or risk being undervalued.
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