The AI boom took over Climate Week and not everyone is happy about it

The AI boom has driven a surge in climate-tech funding, with venture deals reaching $14 billion in Q1, largely supporting data-center-related sectors such as the built environment, grid infrastructure, and dispatchable energy. Many founders welcomed the faster pace, especially those in energy, while others warned that the focus on AI could sideline other climate-tech solutions. The trend shows that the data-center wave may be temporary, but it is currently enabling startups to build sustainable businesses.