Need energy/natural gas experts for a story on why nat/gas stocks are cooking with AI right now We're writing up a story on why some natural gas stocks are picking up steam behind AI. The audience is general investors, and we're planning on listing three stocks and maybe one ETF. 1. Analysts point to increased energy demand with rising AI data centers, who need the juice to operate. Natural gas comes in as a reliable energy source that can also serve as a backup. Do you agree with that sentiment and what's your outlook on AI, natural gas, and rising demand? 2. What are the strongest AI applications with natural gas? Upstream, like predictive maintenance or drilling optimization? Mid-stream, like pipeline monitoring? Downstream, like demand forecasting and refining operations? 3. What natural gas do you like right now, and why? Anything tied to AI is great, but whatever stocks you like and why is fine, too.

Good Day, 1. Yes I see we require steady large scale energy for AI which at present natural gas is doing better than many renewables. It is cleaner than coal and also very flexible which it uses as a backup. As AI demand goes up natural gas will play very key support role in energy supply. 2. In upstream we have seen AI do great in predictive maintenance and drilling optimization which in turn reduces down time and costs. Midstream AI improves pipeline safety with real time leak detection. Downstream AI does great in demand forecasting which in turn improves efficiency and our response to market changes. 3. I am watching plays like Cheniere Energy (LNG) which are key export players and we are seeing global demand for U.S. LNG rise. Also Kinder Morgan (KMI) does very well with its midstream infrastructure. If AI continues to grow which it is doing it these companies could benefit from the increased data center energy needs and greater demand stability. If you decide to use this quote, I'd love to stay connected! Feel free to reach me at spencergarret_fernandez@seoechelon.com

AI's growing role in energy demand, particularly with data centers, makes natural gas an increasingly important resource. I do agree that AI-driven infrastructure is pushing up energy needs, and natural gas is well-positioned due to its reliability and flexibility, especially in meeting peak demands. As more AI applications expand, natural gas will play a key role as a backup to intermittent renewable sources. In terms of AI applications, predictive maintenance for drilling operations has been a game-changer. It helps optimize equipment lifespan and reduce downtime. Mid-stream, AI's role in pipeline monitoring has also improved safety and efficiency, with real-time analytics detecting potential issues before they escalate. Downstream, AI-powered demand forecasting is allowing refiners to better plan production and optimize costs. Right now, I like stocks like EQT Corporation for its strong production growth and technological adoption. It's well-positioned to benefit from AI's impact on operational efficiency and increasing demand for natural gas.

From my position at Caldera, I've seen how AI-driven energy demand is shifting the conversation around natural gas. AI data centers run 24/7 and draw massive power. Natural gas fits that load profile well because it's dispatchable, abundant, and cost-effective. While renewables remain important long-term, the grid needs firm backup. Gas is stepping in as a practical bridge, and we expect that role to expand. The outlook is strong, especially in regions where infrastructure already supports high-volume gas delivery. In terms of AI application, upstream is where we've seen the most tangible results so far. Predictive maintenance and drill site optimization directly reduce costs and downtime. Operators using AI for subsurface analytics are making faster, better calls on well placement. Midstream is catching up like pipeline monitoring through AI improves safety and leak detection. Downstream, AI helps with supply and demand forecasting and heat rate optimization in combined-cycle plants. The entire value chain benefits, but upstream players get the fastest ROI. For investors, names like EQT and Chesapeake stand out. Both have exposure to the Marcellus and Haynesville plays and are leaning into operational efficiency. EQT, in particular, has embraced tech in its drilling programs. On the ETF side, First Trust Natural Gas (FCG) gives broad exposure to gas producers. With AI demand growing and domestic gas supply strong, the sector has room to run.