The Data Center Gold Rush

In this episode of Energy Newsbeat – Conversations in Energy, host Stu Turley talks with Mikey Lucas, COO & Partner at MSB Global Services and Matrix Data Center, about the future of AI, data centers, and America’s energy dominance.Mikey shares his journey from self-taught entrepreneur to leading a three-gigawatt data center project powering the AI boom. The discussion covers:Why data centers consume power equal to tens of thousands of homesThe two biggest hurdles: financing and grid powerHow microgrids, nuclear, and behind-the-meter solutions can reshape the industryInvestment opportunities with 15–20% returnsStrain from EV adoption and natural gas demandAmerica’s aging grid as a national security riskThe urgent need for skilled laborA mix of big-picture strategy and real-world solutions, this episode explores where AI, energy, and investment collide—and why skilled trades may fuel America’s next boom.I am looking forward to more podcasts with Mikey as I learned a lot from our discussion, and loved his get-the-job-done attitude. Connect with Mikey on his LinkedIn here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikey-lucas/Book an Appointment with Mikey here:https://site.msbglobalservices.com/mikey-consultation-call-30minHighlights of the Podcast 00:00 - Intro00:52 – AI as a Force for Good02:23 – AI, Energy, and U.S. Dominance03:02 – What Are Data Centers?05:30 – Power & Financing: The Big Hurdles08:56 – ERCOT, Texas, and Nuclear Prospects10:33 – Investment Opportunities12:04 – Returns & Infrastructure Funds14:05 – Public Perception & Rising Bills15:08 – The Real Problem: Utilities18:44 – Businesses Must Rethink Energy19:35 – The EV Strain on the Grid21:16 – America’s Clean Advantage23:46 – Solving Problems vs. Talking About Them25:07 – How to Connect with Mikey26:01 – Natural Gas Shortages Ahead?28:43 – The Energy Supercycle30:46 – The Skilled Labor Crisis32:37 – Stu’s DIY Microgrid34:32 – Hard Truths for the Next Generation35:05 – Closing ThoughtsCheck out the Substack here:https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/

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