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Join the UCL Energy Institute on June 11, 2026, for an insightful event titled Energy security and AI: Are UK net-zero and AI ambitions compatible? This in-person conference will take place at Room 225, UCL Central House in London, from 2 PM to 7 PM.
The UK Government's Clean Power 2030 strategy aims for a 95% share of clean energy generation within the decade. However, the ambition to position the UK as a global AI superpower is exerting significant pressure on the energy grid, with an estimated 55GW of potential data center demand in the National Grid connection queue. This event will bring together key stakeholders to discuss whether these two objectives can coexist or if they are fundamentally at odds.
The afternoon will feature a welcome address from the Director of the UCL Energy Institute, followed by scene-setting remarks from Dr. Aidan O'Sullivan, an Associate Professor in Energy and AI. The first panel will focus on how AI can accelerate progress towards the Clean Power 2030 goals, while the second panel will address the implications of data center expansion on the decarbonization of the electricity sector.
Participants will include representatives from the UCL Energy Institute, the Energy Systems and AI Lab, the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, UK Power Networks, the Royal Academy of Engineering, OFGEM, and Baringa. The event will conclude with remarks and a drinks reception, providing an excellent networking opportunity for attendees.
