U.S. per capita energy usage peaked in 1973. Since then? Flat. Meanwhile, China’s per capita energy use has grown 9x.

Today, AI, EVs, manufacturing, and data centers are driving demand for more electricity than ever—and our grid can’t keep up.

In this episode, a16z general partners David Ulevitch and Erin Price-Wright, along with investing partner Ryan McEntush from the American Dynamism team, join us to unpack:

– How America’s grid fell behind
– Why we "forgot how to build" power infrastructure
– The role of batteries, solar, nuclear, and software in reshaping the grid
– How AI is both stressing and helping the system
– What it’ll take to build a more resilient, decentralized, and dynamic energy future

Whether you’re a founder, policymaker, or just someone who wants their lights to stay on, this conversation covers what’s broken—and how to fix it.

Timestamps:
00:00 The Future of the Energy Grid
01:09 Historical Context and Current State of the Grid
03:08 Decentralization and New Technologies
07:31 Policy and Workforce Issues
10:45 The Role of Solar and Batteries
15:07 Diverse Energy Sources and Demand
24:24 Challenges in Grid Monitoring and Communication
25:55 Load Forecasting and Energy Markets
27:40 The State of Nuclear Energy
31:08 Advancements in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
35:56 The Role of Technology in Mega Projects
38:20 Opportunities in Grid Management and Monitoring
43:08 The Future of Energy Infrastructure and Policy

Resources:
Find David on X: https://x.com/davidu
Find Erin on X: https://x.com/espricewright
Find Ryan on X: https://x.com/rmcentush

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Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.