Chevron CEO Mike Wirth is warning that the explosive growth of artificial intelligence could dramatically strain the U.S. power grid, driving up electricity costs for ordinary Americans if left unchecked. In a recent interview on Fox Business, Wirth outlined a strategy designed to meet rising energy demand from AI data centers while shielding consumers from higher utility bills. The plan relies on domestic natural gas and private power infrastructure rather than forcing families to absorb the cost.
Wirth explained that large AI data centers require enormous and constant amounts of electricity, far beyond what traditional residential and commercial users consume. If those demands are routed through the existing grid, utilities will be forced to expand capacity, a cost that ultimately lands on ratepayers. Chevron’s approach focuses on building off-grid energy parks that directly supply power to data centers, keeping those costs separate from consumer electricity rates.
The strategy centers on abundant U.S. natural gas, particularly along the Gulf Coast, where Chevron already has deep production and infrastructure investments. Wirth said natural gas remains reliable, affordable, and scalable, making it well suited for powering advanced computing facilities that cannot afford interruptions. By converting American energy into computing power on site, the company aims to support technological growth without destabilizing household energy bills.
Chevron’s leadership framed the effort as both an economic and national security issue. Wirth noted that energy reliability is essential for maintaining U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence, especially as foreign competitors expand their own capabilities. Keeping power costs stable also protects working families already burdened by inflation and rising living expenses.
The company has reported strong production and financial performance, which executives say allows Chevron to invest in long-term infrastructure solutions. Wirth emphasized that innovation does not require abandoning traditional energy but using it wisely to support emerging technologies.
As AI continues to expand across the economy, Chevron’s approach highlights a market-driven alternative to government mandates, using American energy resources to fuel growth while protecting consumers from unnecessary costs.
