After two decades of relatively flat US electricity consumption, power demand is growing again as AI, data centers, and advanced manufacturing expand. Solar and battery storage can add capacity relatively quickly and economically—but lengthy development and grid-interconnection processes could prevent new power from coming online fast enough.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center at The Conference Board, speaks with David Zwillinger, CEO of DESRI, about what it will take to meet America's rising demand for reliable, affordable power.

Together, they discuss why solar accounted for 54% of new US generating capacity last year and how falling battery costs are making renewable energy more attainable and attractive. They also explore the role of natural gas and other energy sources in maintaining reliability, how developers can build community support, why the business case for renewables has shifted from ESG goals to cost and speed, and what CEOs and CFOs should understand about power agreements and transferable renewable energy tax credits.

More from The Conference Board:

· Wired for AI: What US Tech Giants' Growing Energy Appetite Means for Business

· Data Center Buildout Puts Pressure on Power Infrastructure, Input Costs

· Can the US Grid Keep Up with the Demand for AI?

· US Power Surge: How Businesses Can Prepare for Electricity Demand Spikes from AI