AI Power Demand, Offshore Charging & Energy Security
AI is driving a surge in electricity demand, new infrastructure is emerging offshore, and energy security is back in focus. From data center growth and vessel electrification to oil stockpiles, mineral demand, and AI chip dominance, these stories highlight how energy, technology, and geopolitics are becoming increasingly intertwined.
🖥️ AI Is Driving a Surge in Electricity Demand
Global electricity use from data centers jumped 17% in 2025 and could double by 2030, with AI-specific demand set to triple. Despite rapid efficiency gains, rising usage is pushing energy systems to their limits, with bottlenecks emerging in grids, supply chains, and permitting.
🌊 Offshore Charging Targets Vessel Electrification
Stillstrom has unveiled new offshore charging systems designed to power vessels directly at sea. Built as standalone monopile structures, the technology aims to solve a key challenge for offshore wind—enabling electrified operations without relying on onshore infrastructure.
🛢️ China Builds Strategic Oil Buffer
China has expanded its oil reserves to nearly 1.4 billion barrels, providing up to 115 days of import cover. The stockpiling comes amid rising geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, highlighting how energy security strategies differ across major economies.
⚡ Data Centres Could Take 12% of U.S. Power
By 2028, data centres may consume up to 12% of U.S. electricity, driven by AI growth. This expansion also increases demand for critical materials like copper and rare earths—many of which rely heavily on imports.
🧠 AI Chip Market Remains Highly Concentrated
Nvidia dominates the AI chip market, supplying nearly two-thirds of global AI compute capacity in late 2025. While competitors like Google, AMD, and others are scaling up, the gap remains significant—underscoring how concentrated the AI supply chain is.