Connect | MENA // DCD>Major Panel: Will the good times last? Navigating AI's energy demands in a sustainable future

2026 tickets available soon!
  • —
  • Main Stage
  • Mission Critical Power
  • Energy & Sustainability
  • Open Session
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Speakers

Juan Colina

Data Centre & Distributed IT Segment Leader, Eaton

Sarah Hussain Zahidi

Sarah Hussain Zahidi

Principal Electrical Engineer, RED Engineering

Jimmy Sneed

Managing Director, WB Engineers + Consultants

Sanjay Bhutani

Joint President & Chief Business Officer, AdaniConneX

Matt Welch

Head of Conference Production, Data Center Nation

As AI drives unprecedented electricity demands, aging grids worldwide are straining under increased load and supply shortages. Utilities remain unprepared, leading to bottlenecks for consumers.

However, some MENA countries are breaking this trend, having invested in smart grids in recent years. With abundant natural resources and a push for innovative fuel sources, could MENA be the region best equipped to handle the surging energy demands of AI?

This panel will explore whether regional operators have bucked the worldwide trend of energy shortages, or if this optimism is short-lived. What proactive measures can be taken today to avert potential crises tomorrow? Are AI's energy needs a looming catastrophe or an opportunity to revolutionize sustainable infrastructure? Join this panel to discuss:

  • Energy grid innovation: How are AI's energy demands challenging electricity grids and creating bottlenecks?
  • Embracing energy: In what way can a reduction in fossil fuel reliance drive data centers to adopt smarter, localized renewable solutions?
  • The key question: While times are good now, how long before serious energy constraints arrive?