Powering the Future: Bay Area Council Delegation Explores AI, Energy, and Innovation in Chicago
The Bay Area Council on Tuesday (Sept. 30) concluded an action-packed multi-day delegation to explore how smart policy, strategic investment, and breakthrough innovation can address surging energy demands while advancing climate goals and strengthening our economy.
Beginning with a visit to the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant, which provides about 17% of California’s carbon-free energy each year, and continuing to Chicago, delegates engaged directly with energy and technology leaders to examine the pivotal roles of AI, data centers, quantum technology, and nuclear energy in shaping our future.
The delegation featured discussions with the Chicago Quantum Exchange at the University of Chicago, where panelists explored energy and industrial policies helping quantum computing thrive. Delegates toured the Hyde Park Labs and Pritzker Nanofab Facility, followed by meetings with Governor Pritzker’s energy team to discuss Illinois’ clean energy progress and the legislative win ending the moratorium on small modular reactors.
The delegation’s fireside chat with Constellation Energy’s Colleen Wright examined recent Microsoft and Meta AI energy deals, and a tour of Equinix’s Cermak data center highlighted how data centers are navigating the current policy and energy landscape. The delegation concluded by visiting Argonne National Labs with ComEd, gaining insights into cutting-edge research and development.
This trip underscored a critical message: where others see risk in AI’s energy demands, California must see possibility. By unlocking clean, reliable, and affordable energy sources, including nuclear power, the Bay Area can power the next era of computing while advancing climate ambitions.
The Bay Area Council remains committed to ensuring California maintains its global leadership at the nexus of clean energy and technology through continued engagement with policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators across the country.
To engage in the Council’s energy policy work, please contact Policy Director Julian Lake.
