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Artificial intelligence (AI) is broadly expected to turbocharge the pace of data center construction in 2026, with hyperscalers racing to meet soaring compute demand.

And since data center buildout often raises power prices for local communities, the idea of on-site power generation may start to resonate with the AI titan this year.

Against that backdrop, Bernstein senior analyst Chad Dillars argues Caterpillar Inc (NYSE: CAT) could emerge as the biggest corporate beneficiary in the months ahead.

At the time of writing, CAT shares are up roughly 140% versus their 52-week high in April of 2025.

Why hyperscalers may pivot to on-site power generation in 2026

The explosive growth in artificial intelligence workloads is straining traditional grids – particularly in PJM regions, where one-third of US data center construction is concentrated.

Rising electricity costs and the subsequent “political backlash” are forcing hyperscalers to rethink their reliance on public utilities.

By building their own localized generation facilities, giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Alphabet can insulate themselves from voter anguish over rising bills while ensuring an uninterrupted supply.

On-site generation may also enable these titans to bypass regulatory bottlenecks, creating a cleaner narrative around energy independence.

How on-site power generation boost Caterpillar’s stock price?

Speaking recently with CNBC, Chad Dillard said, “If you are doing on-site generation, the biggest winner will be Caterpillar stock.”

Why? Because the NYSE-listed firm “manufactures both reciprocating engines and smaller-scale turbines that actually power the local grid.”

This positions Caterpillar as a key supplier to the AI boom, with every new data center potentially requiring bespoke generation capacity.

Beyond hardware, CAT’s service and maintenance contracts provide recurring revenue streams –  amplifying the earnings impact.

Unlike transmission-focused firms such as Quanta Services, which Dillard characterized as “less of a winner,” Caterpillar stock thrives precisely when power is decentralized.

All in all, the firm’s ability to deliver turnkey solutions makes it indispensable in the hyperscaler energy pivot.

Should you invest in CAT shares today?

For investors, Caterpillar shares’ exposure to AI-driven energy demand adds a “fresh” layer to its traditional construction and mining narrative.

According to the Bernstein analyst, the $15 billion in new power plant contracts highlight the scale of opportunity.

More importantly, the political dynamics of 2026 – where power prices are “up pretty massively,” and voters are “upset,” as Dillard noted – create urgency for solutions that hyperscalers can control.

In short, Caterpillar sits at the intersection of industrial strength and digital infrastructure – a rare blend that could drive sustained earnings growth.

With AI adoption accelerating, CAT’s role in powering next-gen data centers strengthens the case for long-term investors to stay bullish on the stock.

A 0.93% dividend yield makes CAT stock all the more attractive to own for the long-term in 2026.

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