How AI’s Surging Energy Demand Could Impact Our Climate: What You Need to Know

Technology companies are rapidly launching new cloud services and artificial intelligence tools. This surge has led to a significant increase in data center construction, especially large-scale facilities known as hyperscale data centers.

These massive data centers require a lot of energy to power their servers and keep them cool. In fact, the demand for electricity has skyrocketed. As the need for renewable energy sources hasn’t kept pace, many data centers still rely on fossil fuels. This shift raises serious concerns about rising carbon emissions and environmental damage.

Energy Consumption of Data Centers

From 2014 to 2023, energy use by data centers tripled, and it might triple again by 2028, according to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Energy. In 2023, data centers consumed about 4.4% of the nation’s total electricity demand. By 2028, this could climb to as high as 12%, translating to a jump from 176 terawatt hours (TWh) to 580 TWh of electricity used.

A study highlighted by the Environmental and Energy Study Institute revealed that emissions from data centers increased by an astounding 300% since 2018, contributing to 2% of all U.S. emissions in 2024. Among nearly 1,800 data centers analyzed, their average carbon emissions were 50% higher than the national average, largely due to their locations in carbon-heavy areas. Virginia stands out as a hotspot; it’s home to the largest concentration of data centers globally, using around 25% of the local energy supply.

Interestingly, the regional power grid in Virginia derives 61% of its energy from fossil fuels, compared to the U.S. average of 56%. Overall, only about 22% of the energy consumed by data centers comes from renewable sources.

Local Impact and Community Concerns

Some data centers operate their own natural gas and diesel generators to meet high energy demands, raising concerns for nearby residents. These facilities can cause air pollution and an incessant noise level. Residents, like Gregory Pirio, who lives just 150 yards from one center, report noise levels reaching 90 decibels. Prolonged exposure to such noise can lead to permanent hearing loss, making the well-being of local communities a pressing issue.

The Bigger Picture

This growing demand for data center energy highlights a significant challenge: balancing technological advancement with environmental sustainability. With technology becoming more embedded in our lives, finding renewable solutions could be key to reducing the environmental impact.

For more on how data centers are transforming energy demands, check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s full report here.

As we navigate this tech boom, understanding its implications for our communities and the planet will be crucial.

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