CNBC · 28 Sep, 16:10 · Finance briefing

'Take or pay': AI companies are taking a risky page from the energy sector's playbook

Artificial intelligence firms are increasingly adopting 'take or pay' contractual models traditionally used in the energy sector.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

Artificial intelligence firms are increasingly adopting 'take or pay' contractual models traditionally used in the energy sector. Under these agreements, clients commit to purchasing specific volumes of compute power or services, regardless of actual usage. This strategy aims to secure predictable revenue streams for AI developers while transferring significant financial risk to buyers. The approach mirrors long-term infrastructure deals in utilities, reflecting the capital-intensive nature of building and maintaining large-scale AI infrastructure. This shift highlights growing tensions between AI providers seeking stability and enterprises wary of locking into potentially unused capacity amid rapid technological evolution.

Employer demand for AI Strategy skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This shift fundamentally alters how organisations procure AI capabilities. You must now evaluate contracts with the same rigour as energy supply deals. Professionals in procurement, finance, and strategy need to understand capacity planning and risk allocation deeply. Demand will rise for experts who can model usage scenarios accurately and negotiate flexible terms. If you lead technology adoption, audit your current commitments for hidden liabilities. Learn to forecast realistic AI integration timelines to avoid paying for idle power. Prioritise skills in contract law and financial modelling. A smart move is to upskill in AI strategy and risk management. Ensure you can justify spend to stakeholders by linking compute costs directly to measurable business outcomes. Avoid vague promises; demand clear usage metrics and exit clauses. Your ability to navigate these complex commercial arrangements will distinguish you in the market.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
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