Nearly 90% of energy leaders boosted AI spending last year, Adnoc-Microsoft study finds

Nearly nine out of ten energy sector leaders have increased their spending on artificial intelligence (AI) according to a new Adnoc-Microsoft study, with many anticipating returns that cover or exceed their costs. However, the survey of nearly 400 senior executives in the energy and finance sectors also reveals significant concerns over whether existing power infrastructure can handle the extra electricity demand that AI will generate.

About half of the respondents are confident that current infrastructure can manage AI-driven electricity needs, a figure that has remained unchanged since 2025. The study projects that AI could increase energy consumption by 2030. AI's role in corporate strategy is also evolving, with 62 percent of respondents now ranking it among their top two priorities, up from 42 percent in 2025.

The share of organizations using integrated agentic AI workflows has more than doubled to 33 percent from 15 percent. Leaders in Brazil and India are particularly confident that their existing systems can meet AI-driven demand, while confidence in the US and UK is lower. As AI's demand for power grows, energy systems will need to adapt, integrate new technologies, and respond to changing conditions with confidence, the report concludes.

Trust, transparency, and accountability are also key priorities for AI governance as the technology becomes more deeply integrated into organizations.