2025 in Review: winning the AI arms race and the $18 trillion question

In this special year end podcast, Chiranjib Sengupta brings together the defining voices and moments from our coverage in 2025 as the global energy conversation shifts from transition to energy addition. Featuring exclusive insights from Secretary Doug Burgum, Secretary Chris Wright, H.E. Haitham Al Ghais, Dr Sama Bilbao y León, Simon Flowers, Francesco La Camera and Jassim Al-Shirawi, this review episode explores how AI, population growth and economic development are driving unprecedented demand for power.

Focusing on the key themes of 2025, the discussion spans the $18 trillion investment needed in oil and gas, the revival of nuclear and SMRs, the rapid growth of LNG and the infrastructure and investment needed to deliver reliable, affordable energy at scale. With a strong focus on energy equity, the episode underscores why an all of the above strategy is essential to meet global demand while ensuring no region is left behind.

Don’t forget to watch the full version of the exclusive interviews highlighted in this podcast episode:

• US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum

• US Energy Secretary Chris Wright

• H.E. Haitham Al Ghais, OPEC Secretary General

• Francesco La Camera, IRENA Director General

• Jassim Alshirawi, IEF Secretary General

• Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, Director General, World Nuclear Association

• Simon Flowers, Chairman and Chief Analyst, Wood Mackenzie