Why AI is Pushing the U.S. Power Grid to its Breaking Point | Steven Cunningham - E128

Imagine AI Podcast

Did you know U.S. energy demand is set to spike 25% in the next five years? In this live episode of the Imagine AI Live Podcast, Chris Madden sits down with Steven Cunningham, CFO and Co-Founder of Madison Energy Infrastructure, to explore how distributed solar and battery energy systems are reshaping the electricity grid. Steven breaks down how Madison is building hundreds of on-site and near-site generation assets across the U.S., serving large-scale commercial, municipal, and industrial customers. From skyrocketing electricity demand driven by AI and data centers to the 25% surge in national energy needs over the next five years, Steven unpacks how agile, modern energy companies can outperform legacy utility monopolies—and how AI will supercharge Madison’s operational edge. A must-watch for anyone interested in climate tech, grid innovation, and the economics of energy. (0:00) Introduction and guest overview (0:15) Madison Energy Infrastructure and distributed generation (1:03) Traditional vs. distributed electric grid systems (1:47) Company growth and energy savings for clients (3:25) US energy demand, supply, and cost trends (6:06) Diversifying energy sources and AI management (8:02) Solar panel materials and construction (9:02) AI in energy data and marketing strategies (12:25) Finding more information about Madison Energy Infrastructure