TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Highlights AI Power Challenges at Smart Systems Stage

From October 13‑15, 2026, the Moscone Center in San Francisco will host the Smart Systems Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt. The program focuses on the growing power demand of artificial intelligence and the risk of energy supply becoming a critical bottleneck.

Speakers include Helion CEO David Kirtley and Commonwealth Fusion Systems chief science officer Brandon Sorbom, who will discuss commercial fusion progress and how fusion could be integrated into the grid. Inertia founder Jeff Lawson will share his experience transitioning from Twilio to running a heavily funded fusion startup. Panels on grid modernization feature Drew Baglino of Heron Power, Apoorv Bhargava of WeaveGrid, and other experts addressing how utilities, startups, and data‑center operators can secure and expand electricity infrastructure for AI’s next wave.

The agenda underscores the need for upgraded grid capacity, innovative fusion technology, and coordinated investment to support AI‑driven workloads without stalling economic growth.