Growing need for energy could slow a move to climate-friendly power sources, experts say

The growth of artificial intelligence and data centers across the country has pushed demand for electricity to 'mind blowing' levels, experts said at an energy conference.A shift by power consumers toward electric appliances and vehicles has changed the power needs in many parts of the country, making the demand less predictable.Trump administration policies have complicated the move toward renewable energy sources, as the president pushes for more coal and rails against wind power.Arun Mani, a water and energy specialist at the accounting giant KPMG, said he started working in the energy industry three decades ago because it was “boring.”Now, Mani said, he and his industry are dealing with “too much excitement” as artificial intelligence and data centers increase American power demand, the world continues fighting climate change and a new presidential administration pushes an aggressive energy policy.Mike Eugenis, director of resource planning for Arizona Public Service, was sitting a...