AI doesn't run on code alone — it demands massive amounts of power, and that need is fast becoming a critical bottleneck. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, the Smart Systems Stage will be where energy, infrastructure, and technology converge, covering everything from fusion breakthroughs to the grid strain AI is placing on the entire economy.
From October 13–15 at San Francisco’s Moscone Center, join leaders from Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Helion, Inertia, Bloom Energy, and more as they explore what it actually takes to power the next decade of innovation. We’re tackling the path to commercial fusion, the race to modernize aging grid infrastructure, and how data center operators are scrambling to secure the electricity that AI’s growth depends on.
We’re also closing in on the end of our current pricing window — so now is your chance to save on all tickets for founders, investors, and more. Grab your ticket here before current discounts expire. As for the agenda, here’s a first look at the Smart Systems Stage lineup:
Bringing Fusion to the Grid
Leaders from Commonwealth Fusion Systems and Helion break down the breakthroughs driving commercial fusion forward, the challenges still ahead, and what it will take to get fusion power onto the grid at scale.
Featuring David Kirtley, CEO, Helion, and Brandon Sorbom, Chief Science Officer, Commonwealth Fusion Systems
How Twilio’s Founder Is Tackling the Power Problem
Inertia CEO Jeff Lawson joins for a candid fireside chat on his journey from founding Twilio to leading one of the best-funded fusion power startups in the world — and how scaling Twilio shaped his approach to talent, timelines, and the hard engineering questions ahead.
Featuring Jeff Lawson, CEO, Inertia
Rewiring the Grid for the Electric Age
Electricity demand is growing faster than the infrastructure built to support it. This panel explores what it takes to modernize the power system, where investment is flowing, and how utilities, startups, and technology providers are building a more resilient, flexible grid.
Featuring Drew Baglino, Founder & CEO, Heron Power; Apoorv Bhargava, CEO and Co-founder, WeaveGrid; and more speakers to be announced
AI’s Power Problem
As compute demand skyrockets, data center operators and energy companies are racing to secure power and expand infrastructure before it becomes the bottleneck that slows AI’s next wave. Hear how leaders across both industries are tackling this challenge.
Featuring Sara Spangelo, President & COO, [Company TBD], and additional speakers to be announced