AI data centers are driving a surge in electricity demand, but the real threat to consumers isn’t artificial intelligence. According to Josh T. Smith, the problem is an electricity system constrained by permitting delays, regulatory barriers, and monopoly utilities that limit competition and slow the expansion of new energy supply.

“Markets work in energy, but only if supply is allowed to respond to demand,” Smith writes, arguing that opening electricity markets and reforming permitting would protect consumers while allowing innovation to power the AI economy.