The Data Center Gold Rush

In this episode of Energy Newsbeat – Conversations in Energy, host Stu Turley talks with Mikey Lucas, COO & Partner at MSB Global Services and Matrix Data Center, about the future of AI, data centers, and America’s energy dominance. Mikey shares his journey from self-taught entrepreneur to leading a three-gigawatt data center project powering the AI boom. The discussion covers: Why data centers consume power equal to tens of thousands of homesThe two biggest hurdles: financing and grid powerHow microgrids, nuclear, and behind-the-meter solutions can reshape the industryInvestment opportunities with 15–20% returnsStrain from EV adoption and natural gas demandAmerica’s aging grid as a national security riskThe urgent need for skilled labor A mix of big-picture strategy and real-world solutions, this episode explores where AI, energy, and investment collide—and why skilled trades may fuel America’s next boom. I am looking forward to more podcasts with Mikey as I learned a lot from our discussion, and loved his get-the-job-done attitude. Connect with Mikey on his LinkedIn here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikey-lucas/ Book an Appointment with Mikey here:https://site.msbglobalservices.com/mikey-consultation-call-30min Highlights of the Podcast  00:00 - Intro 00:52 – AI as a Force for Good 02:23 – AI, Energy, and U.S. Dominance 03:02 – What Are Data Centers? 05:30 – Power & Financing: The Big Hurdles 08:56 – ERCOT, Texas, and Nuclear Prospects 10:33 – Investment Opportunities 12:04 – Returns & Infrastructure Funds 14:05 – Public Perception & Rising Bills 15:08 – The Real Problem: Utilities 18:44 – Businesses Must Rethink Energy 19:35 – The EV Strain on the Grid 21:16 – America’s Clean Advantage 23:46 – Solving Problems vs. Talking About Them 25:07 – How to Connect with Mikey 26:01 – Natural Gas Shortages Ahead? 28:43 – The Energy Supercycle 30:46 – The Skilled Labor Crisis 32:37 – Stu’s DIY Microgrid 34:32 – Hard Truths for the Next Generation 35:05 – Closing Thoughts Check out the Substack here:https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/