In this piece, we discuss the 10 Best AI Energy Stocks to Buy Now.
As the artificial intelligence (AI) spending narrative evolves in 2026, investors are shifting their focus to the energy backbone supporting the AI economy. According to a January 13, 2026, Reuters report, BlackRock stated that investors favoring AI momentum in 2026 remain more bullish on energy and infrastructure providers than U.S. megacap technology stocks.
With AI and big tech dominating equity returns in 2025, BlackRock’s Investment Directions report cited rising concern over volatile returns on capital and higher borrowing costs associated with the Magnificent 7’s aggressive data center expansion. In a survey conducted with 732 EMEA-based clients, over half selected power providers for data centers as their top AI investment opportunity. Meanwhile, just one-fifth favor large U.S. tech groups.
Meanwhile, demand for AI hardware remains strong. In 2026, the semiconductor industry is projected to reach $1 trillion in revenue, marking a growth of 29% year-over-year, according to a Wells Fargo sector outlook note dated January 15, 2026. The growth is assumed to stem from AI workloads transitioning from training to inference, driving broader chip utilization.
On the other hand, according to Deutsche Bank analysts Adrian Cox and Stefan Abrudan, investors should not rush as they predict 2026 will be AI’s “hardest year yet.” In the new Deutsche Bank Research Institute note published on January 20, 2026, the analysts cited supply-chain bottlenecks, particularly energy shortages, as a key constraint.
This backdrop now leads us to our list of the 10 best AI energy stocks to buy now.
Carol Gauthier/Shutterstock.com
Our Methodology
To curate our list of the 10 best AI energy stocks, we relied on the financial media and other resources to compile a list of AI energy stocks that either directly supply electricity to AI data centers or deliver the AI infrastructure and fuel systems required to support AI-driven power demand. Finally, we assessed hedge fund sentiment and ranked these stocks in ascending order by the number of hedge funds bullish on each as of Q3 2025. To measure hedge fund sentiment, we used Insider Monkey’s hedge fund database, which tracks 978 stocks as of Q3 2025.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 427.7% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 264 percentage points (see more details here).
10. Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 64
Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE) is one of the best AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 16, 2026, shares of Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE) surged to an all-time high of $147.93. Over the past year, the shares have climbed 470.43% as investor momentum remains strong amid the company’s growing role in next-generation, distributed power solutions. The optimism also stems from rising visibility into long-duration demand amid grid constraints and data-center-driven load growth.
The confidence builds upon the developments reported earlier in the month. On January 8, 2026, it was announced that one of American Electric Power’s subsidiaries exercised its option to acquire a substantial portion of Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE)’s solid oxide fuel cells. This translates into an unconditional agreement for roughly $2.65 billion in equipment under a 20-year offtake arrangement with a high-investment-grade third-party customer.
The move also gained analyst attention, with Evercore ISI describing the agreement as a significant achievement. The firm highlighted that expected volumes significantly exceed minimum commitments and reinforce the company’s commercial pipeline depth. Accordingly, the firm reiterated its ‘Outperform’ rating with a $152 price target on January 8, 2026. Amid stronger sales momentum from the solid oxide fuel cells order, Clear Street raised the price target on Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE) from $58 to $68, reiterating a ‘Hold’ rating on the same day.
Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE) focuses on designing and installing solid oxide fuel cell systems that generate electricity from natural gas or biogas and deliver on-site, low-emission power solutions for utilities and commercial customers.
9. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 72
NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE) is included in our list of the AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 14, 2026, NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE) saw Jefferies slightly lower its price target from $88 to $87, while reiterating a ‘Hold’ rating. The firm’s target reduction was attributed to valuation discipline rather than a shift in fundamentals. Furthermore, Jefferies expressed confidence in management’s goal to achieve 8%+ EPS growth. In 2026, the firm cites large data center-related power contracts as the key catalyst for the stock. Moreover, the firm sees no meaningful new disclosures in the upcoming fourth-quarter earnings call, as strategic updates have already been digested at the December Investor Day. Thus, Jefferies is more focused on execution rather than short-term narrative shifts.
Meanwhile, on the execution front, NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE) and Meta Platforms finalized roughly 2.5 GW of clean energy agreements across 13 projects. Spanning PPAs and energy storage agreements across ERCOT, SPP, MISO, and New Mexico, the contracts are expected to come online between 2026 and 2028. The move reinforces the company’s positioning as a leading partner for hyperscalers scaling power-intensive data centers.
NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE), a leading U.S. renewable power company, operates the regulated Florida utility FPL and its energy infrastructure arm, NEER. The company is focused on wind, solar, and battery storage avenues.
8. Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 73
Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) is one of the best AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 19, 2026, Wolfe Research issued a constructive outlook for clean energy, noting that the sector entered 2026 with improving fundamentals following a volatile 2025. At the same time, the firm remains bullish on Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR), citing a very manageable impact from President Donald Trump’s second term and less-than-expected impact from an execution order associated with clean-energy tax credits.
Meanwhile, the AI-driven data center buildout is drawing increased attention amid accelerating power demand, according to the investment firm. Furthermore, investors’ focus is shifting toward quality cash flows rather than speculative names after valuations received a boost from a strong second-half rally, the firm stated. Amid this backdrop, Wolfe Research cited Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) as its preferred pick, alongside Mastec, given both companies’ strong footprint across power, gas, and transmission markets. The two names were also favored due to a surge in corporate spending on data centers.
Wolfe Research’s update followed Seaport Research’s January 9, 2026, update, where the firm upgraded Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) from ‘Neutral’ to ‘Buy’, setting a $503 price target. While the analyst’s broader picture of the stock remains cautious, the company was the firm’s top large-cap pick for 2026. The firm remained confident in the sector’s outlook due to benefits from a tight U.S. skilled-labor market, power supercycle growth in the Electric Division, and acquisition synergies.
Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) delivers infrastructure solutions across electric power, renewable energy, and underground markets. The company supports utility and energy customers with construction, maintenance, and project services across transmission, distribution, and related systems.
7. The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:WMB)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 73
The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:WMB) is included in our list of the AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 16, 2026, The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:WMB) saw Scotiabank raise its price target from $61 to $66, while reiterating a ‘Sector Perform’ rating. The update came amid a broader reset of Energy Infrastructure valuations, citing structural tailwinds from rising power demand and accelerating LNG exports. This setup is expanding long-term opportunities for gas infrastructure operators such as The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:WMB).
Meanwhile, on January 12, 2026, a more project-specific catalyst was highlighted. UBS reiterated its ‘Buy’ rating on The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:WMB) with a $78 price target, citing accelerating progress on two major pipeline developments.
Firstly, the Northeast Supply Enhancement project has received key water permits, which will help the company meet its target in-service date of Q4 2027. The investment firm estimates roughly $150 million in incremental EBITDA at a 6.0x-7.0x build multiple, pending remaining approvals.
On the other hand, the Constitution pipeline is expected to add about $180 million in EBITDA. The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:WMB) expects construction to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, with service expected by April 2028.
The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:WMB) is focused on operating natural gas gathering, processing, and pipeline infrastructure across the U.S. The company owns and develops large-scale transmission assets that support power generation, LNG exports, and domestic energy demand.
6. Cameco Corporation (NYSE:CCJ)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 79
Cameco Corporation (NYSE:CCJ) is one of the best AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 15, 2026, Cameco Corporation (NYSE:CCJ) saw Raymond James raise its price target from C$150 to C$165, reiterating an ‘Outperform’ rating. Issuing its broader mining outlook, the firm emphasized the structural appeal of copper and uranium amid tightening supply-demand dynamics. The investment firm expects medium- to long-term deficits to support heightened prices, favoring producers with scale and low-cost assets. This outlook positions Cameco Corporation (NYSE:CCJ) well to benefit from both market trends and growing policy support for nuclear energy.
Meanwhile, on January 7, 2026, Bernstein raised its price target on Cameco Corporation (NYSE:CCJ) from $100 to $101, reiterating an ‘Outperform’ rating. The investment firm attributed its bullish stance to uranium’s tightening supply, rising term prices, and policy-driven nuclear expansion. Furthermore, the firm cited nuclear as a stable AI proxy to power data centers. Analysts expect structurally higher uranium prices through 2029, with term prices already above $85 per pound.
Amid this backdrop, the firm believes Cameco Corporation’s (NYSE:CCJ) broad fuel-cycle exposure, particularly its large Canadian asset base, supports the company’s growth narrative. In 2026, Bernstein expects reactor restarts, utility contracting, and government involvement to provide additional visibility for the company.
Cameco Corporation (NYSE:CCJ) focuses on uranium exploration, mining, milling, and fuel services. It offers low-cost, large-scale uranium production and full-cycle nuclear fuel solutions to global utilities and energy markets.
5. EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 82
EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT) is included in our list of the AI energy stocks to buy now.
In January 2026, EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT) is seeing mixed analyst sentiment ahead of its Q4 results, scheduled for announcement on February 17, 2026.
On January 21, 2026, Barclays reduced its price target on EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT) from $67 to $64, while reiterating an ‘Overweight’ rating. The update came as part of the firm’s preview of the exploration and production group. According to the firm, the upstream sector’s cash return model continues to show resilience amid macro volatility. While Barclays remains confident in U.S. offshore, the firm cautions investors not to rush into aggressive positioning amid near-term commodity uncertainty.
Meanwhile, on January 16, 2026, Bank of America Securities reduced its price target on EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT) from $84 to $74, while reiterating a ‘Buy’ rating. Amid positive sentiment around natural gas that has persisted for 18 months, the firm cited rising oversupply risks in 2027, along with downward revisions to natural gas price forecasts. As a result of these concerns, average price targets across gas-focused exploration and production peers declined by roughly 12%.
EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT), a vertically integrated natural gas company, focuses on production and midstream operations in the Appalachian Basin. The company delivers reliable gas supply and infrastructure solutions across the U.S.
4. Talen Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:TLN)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 88
Talen Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:TLN) is one of the best AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 16, 2026, Scotiabank raised its price target on Talen Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:TLN) from $428 to $463, while reiterating its ‘Sector Perform’ rating. The update followed the company’s acquisition of three gas-fired power plants from Energy Capital Partners, an acquisition that adds roughly 2.6 GW of PJM capacity. The investment firm highlighted the attractive valuation of 6.6x EBITDA, modestly below recent deals. The valuation offers a significant discount to peers at approximately 9-11x. Furthermore, the firm raised its EBITDA and free cash flow per share estimates by approximately 25% due to strong financing and geographic diversification into Ohio and Indiana.
The deal includes $3.45 billion in total consideration that breaks down to $2.55 billion in cash and $900 million in Talen Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:TLN) stock. As a result of this acquisition, over 15% annual adjusted free cash flow per share growth is expected through 2030. While Scotiabank views the price of $1,344/kW as higher than historical transactions, the firm remains positive on the deal. However, the firm cautioned about elevated PJM exposure, which remains a risk compared to peers with ERCOT operations.
Talen Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:TLN) focuses on operating power infrastructure and producing and selling electricity, capacity, and ancillary services through its subsidiaries. The company focuses on wholesale markets and strategic expansion in the PJM Interconnection.
3. Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 91
Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG) is included in our list of the AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 9, 2026, TD Cowen initiated coverage on Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG) with a ‘Buy’ rating and a $440 price target, while highlighting heightened regulatory risks. At the same time, the firm cited the recently completed $16.4 billion Calpine acquisition as a key growth catalyst that will provide an attractive opportunity for contracting and continued deals above forward curve prices. Meanwhile, the investment firm noted gas PPA agreements that are offering significant upside potential in addition to Constellation Energy Corporation’s (NASDAQ:CEG) existing nuclear fleet.
Management expects the deal to add roughly $2 billion in annual free cash flow, resulting in 55 GW of zero- and low-emission capacity across nuclear, natural gas, and geothermal generation. At the same time, the move marks progress in regulatory approvals, as the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved 20-year license renewals for the Clinton and Dresden clean energy centers in December 2025. With planned investments exceeding $370 million, Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG) will relicense and upgrade the reactors, allowing Clinton to operate through 2047 and Dresden units through 2049-2051.
Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG) focuses on the generation, supply, and marketing of clean electricity, natural gas, and geothermal assets, alongside wholesale and retail energy services.
2. GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 108
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) is one of the best AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 16, 2026, GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) was cited as the clearest winner by Jefferies. The bullish stance comes amid reports that President Trump and several Northeastern US governors laid out a statement of principles for PJM Interconnection to conduct a backstop emergency auction. The move aims to improve electricity affordability and reliability.
However, some analysts remain cautious about GE Vernova Inc.’s (NYSE:GEV) outlook.
Prior to this update, on January 12, 2026, Citi raised its price target on GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) from $658 to $708, while reiterating a ‘Neutral’ rating. Earlier, Robert W. Baird downgraded the stock to ‘Neutral’, sharing the sentiment with Citi, but with a $649 price target. Robert W. Baird cited oversupply concerns as the basis for its cautious tone.
Amid this mixed analyst sentiment, at its Investor Day, GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) said AI-driven demand is just one growth driver and that a robust backlog is projected to hit $200 billion by 2028, driven by improved margins, enhanced dividend, and buyback expectations.
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) focuses on designing, manufacturing, and servicing power, wind, and electrification technologies. The company delivers flexible, efficient, and low-carbon electricity solutions worldwide.
1. Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 112
Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST) is included in our list of the AI energy stocks to buy now.
On January 15, 2026, Jefferies stated that it is seeing heightened regulatory risk for established power producers. The cautious sentiment builds following reports of potential PJM market intervention aimed at electricity affordability and reliability. As a result of this development, Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST)’s shares experienced a 9% decline. The firm emphasized net risk to existing assets from market intervention as a key contributor to the sharp pullback in the stock.
Still, Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST) continues to draw positive analyst attention amid operational excellence and long-term contracting. On January 12, 2026, the company announced a 20-year nuclear power purchase agreement with Meta for 2.6 GW. With this move, Vistra aims to improve long-duration, zero-carbon revenue visibility. Amid this major development, Scotiabank increased its price target to $293, while reiterating an ‘Outperform’ rating, and UBS raised its target to $233 with a ‘Buy’ rating. Additionally, BofA reduced its price target to $218 on lower gas premiums, raising FY26-FY27 estimates. The firm’s optimism reflects a benefit from PJM PPAs and updated generation assumptions.
Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST) focuses on generating and selling electricity and natural gas across multiple U.S. regions.
While we acknowledge the potential of VST to grow, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than VST and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.
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