Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming economies and societies. However, extracting measurable value from AI remains a hurdle. Around 74% of companies still struggle to achieve and scale AI value. Surfaced AI energy use cases show that by embedding sustainability, businesses can unlock measurable value from AI, such as faster deployment and efficiency savings.2 From optimizing supply chains and accelerating scientific discovery to enabling smarter infrastructure and more efficient energy systems, AI is becoming a foundational technology for economic competitiveness, energy security and innovation. Yet, as its capabilities grow, so too does its energy footprint, raising the question: can AI drive sustainability and resilience without straining energy systems? The stakes are high. Without intentional design and governance, AI-driven electricity demand could offset some of the gains made through the deployment of renewable energy and increase operational pressure on generation and transmission systems. Left unchecked, AI could become a hidden contributor to system stress, infrastructure bottlenecks, energy-market volatility and negative climate impacts,3 all of which could undermine economic competitiveness and system reliability efforts. However, harnessing the latest innovations and with the right levers in place, AI can reinforce, rather than burden, energy systems, enhancing reliability, optimizing grids and other energy assets, reducing emissions and enabling smarter, more efficient decision-making. AI’s expansion is inevitable. The challenge now is ensuring that its growth remains aligned with the capacity and sustainability of its supporting systems. This paper offers a blueprint for impact-first AI that embeds energy efficiency, responsible deployment and demand-side governance into AI development and use. It draws on real-world insights from a global network of organizations across industry, government, academia and civil society. Developed by the World Economic Forum’s AI Energy Impact initiative, in collaboration with Accenture and leading experts, this framework is a call to action and a guide for coordinated progress. It reflects a growing consensus: aligning AI with energy and sustainability goals is not just a moral responsibility; it is a strategic advantage for economic competitiveness, energy security and inclusive prosperity. Today’s choices will shape the role AI plays in our energy future. A net-positive approach, by design, can ensure that AI becomes a catalyst for energy security, equitable progress and the energy transition.Roberto Bocca Head, Centre for Energy and Materials; Member, Executive Committee, World Economic Forum Cathy Li Head, AI, Data and Metaverse; Deputy Head, Centre for AI Excellence; Member, Executive Committee, World Economic Forum James Mazurek Managing Director, US Utilities; Strategy Lead, Accenture From Paradox to Progress: A Net-Positive AI Energy FrameworkDecember 2025 Foreword From Paradox to Progress: A Net-Positive AI Energy Framework 4

From Paradox to Progress A Net Positive AI Energy Framework 2025