Lawrence Coben, NRG Energy, on Collaboration and the Electricity Demand "Supercycle"

Rising electricity demand from AI, data centers, and electrification is reversing decades of flat load growth and reshaping power markets. In this episode, Lawrence Coben, Chair & CEO of NRG Energy, joins Atul to discuss how energy providers are responding to a new era of accelerating demand, tightening capacity and growing infrastructure needs. The conversation examines how utilities, technology companies and large energy users are adapting—highlighting the growing importance of investment, partnerships and policy frameworks to ensure reliable and affordable power. Key topics include: The return of large-scale electricity demand growth after decades of stagnation Implications for industry, large energy users, and residential customers Expanding generation capacity, modernizing the grid, and virtual power plant solutions Collaboration across utilities, hyperscalers, and technology partners Policy and permitting reform as critical enablers of new energy infrastructure This episode builds up to CERAWeek 2026, where leaders will examine the convergence of demand growth, infrastructure investment and system resilience. Join the conversation March 23–27, 2026, in Houston. Learn more at ceraweek.com