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Power generation identified as upstream priority for AI and research
Summary
Senator Lee and other panelists said reliable, firm "base load" electricity is foundational to operating large-scale AI and research infrastructure, highlighting small modular reactors, geothermal and fusion as possible paths.
Senator Lee told the panel that developments in electric power generation are an upstream priority for scientific and technological advancement, saying: "For me, it'd probably be, developments in electric power generation because I view that as upstream from every other technological advancement we're likely to see in our lifetime."
Lee and other speakers discussed a range of technologies that could supply firm, continuous power for data centers and high-performance computing, including small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactors in the AP1000 family, geothermal enabled by deep drilling, and future fusion demonstrations. Senator Warner added that he supports SMRs and pointed to a planned commercial fusion demonstration in Chesapeake, Virginia, as a near-term example. Panelists argued that securing reliable electricity is essential to realize AI-driven productivity gains in research and industry.
