cover of episode The Dirty Energy Powering AI

The Dirty Energy Powering AI

2024/12/3
logo of podcast Why It Matters

Why It Matters

Chapters
The podcast explores the significant energy consumption of AI and its potential to hinder the clean energy transition. The discussion highlights the reliance of AI on fossil fuels and the growing energy demands of data centers, raising concerns about its environmental impact and the need for solutions.
  • AI's energy consumption is substantial and largely relies on fossil fuels.
  • AI's energy demand is increasing rapidly, potentially surpassing other energy-intensive sectors.
  • Failure to address AI's climate impact could jeopardize overall climate goals.

Shownotes Transcript

What powers artificial intelligence (AI)? As global electricity use is surging, with unprecedented demand coming from an increase in data centers, AI’s dependence on fossil fuels presents a serious issue for the planet. In the United States, data center power usage is on track to double by 2030, largely due to the proliferation of AI technology. But while the application of AI shows potential to mitigate climate problems, will its power grab stall the clean energy transition?

 

Featured Guests:

 

Varun Sivaram), Senior Fellow for Climate and Energy, CFR

 

For an episode transcript and show notes, visit us at https://www.cfr.org/podcasts/wim/dirty-energy-powering-ai