Senior representatives from the energy and technology sectors are meeting with UK government officials today to begin discussions on how to support the country’s ambitious plans to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI).

Source: GOV.UK

The newly established AI Energy Council, announced as part of the government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, is holding its inaugural meeting in Whitehall. Co-chaired by the Secretaries of State for Technology and Energy, the council aims to address the energy demands of expanding AI infrastructure while ensuring clean, sustainable growth.

Major players from both industries are attending, including EDF, Scottish Power, National Grid, and Ofgem on the energy side, alongside Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google, and UK-based semiconductor firm Arm from the tech sector.

The council is expected to set its initial priorities, focusing on boosting the UK’s clean energy output and scaling up digital infrastructure to support AI applications. The government’s push for AI dominance comes amid concerns over the sector’s rising energy consumption, with advanced models requiring vast computational power and electricity.

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle emphasised that the UK’s AI ambitions must be underpinned by responsible and sustainable practices, saying the initiative would "fire up the UK’s economic engine" in line with the government’s broader Plan for Change.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband added that AI could play a key role in accelerating the transition to clean electricity, highlighting the council’s role in ensuring AI’s growth is matched by a resilient and sustainable energy system.

Today’s council meeting marks an early but critical step in aligning the UK’s AI and energy strategies, with outcomes likely to shape future policy on digital innovation and sustainability.