Powering the AI Boom: Grid Challenges & Energy Innovation

In this episode of Energy Newsbeat – Conversations in Energy, Stu Turley sits down with Bill Mazzetti of Rosendin to break down the explosive growth of AI-driven data centers, behind-the-meter power strategies, and the future of energy infrastructure in the U.S. From Abilene’s gas-turbine projects to modular nuclear, battery mandates, and California’s near-blackout save, this episode dives into why utilities, tech, and energy sectors must now collaborate like never before. Mazzetti, a 40-year veteran, shares real-world insights, regulatory hurdles, and why modular nuclear is a “when, not if” solution for grid-hungry AI. This was an enlightening discussion around data center, natural gas, and real-world problems. It is clear that Bill has the solutions lined up and can hit the ground running. Having a leader like Rosendin running a project can make it happen on time and on budget. I really enjoyed his wide knowledge base of the entire data center rollout from a project standpoint. Having them lead your project could save millions, and in this AI Data Center race Connect with Bill on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-mazzetti-8b66311/ Check out Rosendin Data Center: https://www.rosendin.com/ Highlights of the Podcast  00:00 - Intro 00:40 – Bill’s Data Center Journey 01:21 – U.S. Data Center Hotspots 03:33 – Stargate Abilene & Behind-the-Meter Power 05:20 – Load Interactive Grid Planning 06:36 – ERCOT Rules & Real-World Grid Saves 08:33 – Fuel Choices: Gas, Renewables & SMRs 11:44 – Cloud Growth Beyond AI 12:24 – Turbine Shortages & Project Planning 13:40 – Grid Strain Is Broader Than Data Centers 15:26 – Oilfield Innovation Meets Data Infrastructure 17:50 – Nuclear’s Regulatory Wall 19:32 – Transmission Bottlenecks & Urban Realities 21:03 – Cleaner Power & Carbon Capture 21:29 – Bill’s Return Invite 22:25 – Contacting Bill Mazzetti 23:14 – Wrap-Up & Thanks Full Transcript: https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/