A typical AI-focused data center consumes as much electricity as 100,000 households, but the largest ones being built today will consume 20 times as much, according to the International Energy Agency.
Generation is not being added to the US grid quickly enough to serve this demand. So where will the energy come from?
The AI industry is increasingly exploring microgrids as the quick-to-deploy answer. Bringing these distributed energy resources online at scale requires collaboration across the cleantech, renewables, and AI industries.
That’s why key players are gathering at the Riverhouse Lodge in Bend, Oregon, on July 10, 2025, for a half-day forum, “Great Transformation: Energy Innovation and the Modern Grid.”
The agenda will focus on three topics crucial to data centers, AI and microgrid players in this fast-changing arena.
- AI-driven demand for compute energy
- Meeting the energy demand for data centers
- The commercialization of microgrids
Adib Naslé, co-founder and CEO of Xendee, one of four partners hosting the event, says that microgrids offer a promising answer to the problems presented by AI growth and insufficient grid infrastructure.
“They can reduce dependency on centralized grids, integrate generation from multiple fuels and storage, and provide load flexibility. They can also improve power quality, reliability, and energy security,” Naslé said.
Other event hosts are Cross Consulting, the Technology Association of Oregon and Mayfield Renewables.
The Great Transformation is a forum for cleantech and renewable energy industry professionals to exchange ideas that address the biggest challenge of our lifetime: the transition from centralized to distributed energy.
When key players gather in one place, “the learning, networking, and formation of collaborations will be real and meaningful,” said Naslé. “Some of the most important players in the energy and data center space in the Pacific Northwest will be present and sharing new insights.”
If you’re an entrepreneur or professional working in data centers, AI or microgrids this is the event for you. Spend an enlightening half-day with other bold thinkers, gather valuable insights, and make connections to drive your business forward.
Tickets are $75 here.