<p>The energy security revolution is pivotal to the sustainable development of the global economy, with artificial intelligence (AI) serving as a critical tool in driving the transformation of new energy systems. This study examines the relationship between AI and regional energy security (ES) via statistical data from 30 provinces in China, with the reliability of the findings confirmed through robustness tests. Empirical analysis reveals that AI enhances ES through two primary pathways: improving energy use efficiency and advancing energy development. Energy use efficiency is bolstered by highly skilled personnel and foreign direct investment, whereas energy development is driven by technological innovation and manufacturing agglomeration. Additionally, a nonlinear relationship between AI and ES is identified. Regional heterogeneity analysis further indicates that the positive impact of AI on ES is more pronounced in the eastern region and in areas with higher levels of openness and human capital. Policies for smart energy supply systems are recommended for development and implementation, and AI technologies are encouraged to be used to improve energy efficiency in production and electrify production.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>