SoftBank Group Corp. told shareholders it will seek a stake in Tokyo Electric Power Co., Japan’s largest utility, to lock in power for its expanding artificial‑intelligence operations. CEO Masayoshi Son said controlling part of the grid would give the telecom arm reliable electricity for AI data centers, which consume massive loads. The move signals a strategic shift toward infrastructure ownership.

Japan’s power sector has struggled with capacity constraints as AI workloads surge nationwide. Analysts warn that without dedicated supply, firms like SoftBank could face throttled growth and higher operating costs. By partnering with Tepco, the group aims to sidestep competitive bidding for electricity, securing long‑term rates and reinforcing its position in the domestic AI boom and ensure stable margins for future growth.

The proposed equity purchase would be the first time SoftBank directly holds a utility asset, marking a departure from its usual venture‑capital playbook. Market observers expect the deal to reshape power‑price dynamics for tech firms and could prompt other conglomerates to seek similar footholds. SoftBank’s pursuit of a stake in Tepco therefore sets a new precedent for infrastructure‑linked AI financing.