Rising Energy Demand Requires Real Solutions, Not Wishful Thinking

Forbes recently published an article entitled “Natural Gas Harms U.S. Economy And Won’t Solve Rising Electricity Demand,” criticizing the cost and construction times of new natural gas generation and suggesting energy investments be focused on non-dispatchable sources like solar. What this piece fails to take seriously is the magnitude of the energy crisis facing Americans today and the dangers of putting all our eggs in the renewables basket.

 Electricity demand is rising sharply across the country. This is driven by a few factors, including population growth, data center expansion, electric vehicle adoption, and AI-driven technologies that require immense computing power. Many states are already seeing strains on their grids and national forecasts show U.S. electricity demand could double in the coming decades.

Solar and wind are part of the solution. But we cannot afford to treat them as the only answer. America needs an all-of-the-above energy strategy that includes nuclear, storage, renewables, and yes, natural gas. 

The idea of dismissing natural gas reflects a misunderstanding of what the grid actually needs to ensure reliability, flexibility, and real-time responsiveness. Natural gas provides power when and where we need it, especially when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing. It also helps prevent blackouts and price surges during periods of extreme weather or high demand. 

The reality is this: a secure energy future means using every source we have to keep power affordable, reliable, and American-made. Leveraging these sources strengthens U.S. energy independence, supports innovation, and gives families and businesses the peace of mind they deserve every day.

The piece gets one thing right: building new infrastructure takes time. So, let’s get to work. If we want to meet the energy demand, it’s going to require a balanced approach, not wishful thinking that renewables can meet all of our capacity needs. It’s time to stop choosing sides and start building an energy future that works for everyone.