The conference program at the Moscone Center focuses on the physical reality behind digital progress. Discussions will move beyond software to explore the hardware of power, featuring experts from Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Helion, Inertia, and Bloom Energy. Participants will examine the path toward commercial fusion, the modernization of utilities, and the strategies data center operators are using to secure reliable electricity.
In section Startups & Technology
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026: Solving the AI Energy Bottleneck
Artificial intelligence demands massive amounts of electricity, creating a critical infrastructure bottleneck that threatens to stall future innovation. From October 13-15, the Smart Systems Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will gather industry leaders in San Francisco to address the collision between surging compute needs and aging energy grids.

Key sessions include a deep dive into fusion technology with Helion CEO David Kirtley and Commonwealth Fusion Systems Chief Science Officer Brandon Sorbom, alongside a fireside chat with Inertia CEO Jeff Lawson. Further panels will address grid resilience with speakers like Heron Power founder Drew Baglino and WeaveGrid CEO Apoorv Bhargava. By bridging the gap between startups and utility providers, the event aims to provide a comprehensive look at the power constraints currently shaping the trajectory of the AI industry.
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