AI’s Desperate Search For Power
The Wall Street Journal reports that tech companies with growing AI businesses have aggressively sought power sources. AI uses massive amounts of electricity and water. The paper reports that companies, including Microsoft and Amazon, have explored substantial use of geothermal and new nuclear sources. It may not be enough. The International Energy Agency forecasts that, by 2026, AI energy consumption will equal all energy usage in Japan
New Sources
One thing that has become clear is that the search for huge new sources of electricity may only partially be successful. Tech companies will need to start or support new energy companies. They will also need to tap into traditional fossil fuel power. That means the use of oil and coal will not drop in the next few years and may increase. In turn, tech companies that were champions of green energy won’t be anymore.
AI Power Consumption
There is another risk of the growth of AI power consumption. That is, not enough will be available to handle AI use, residential needs, and large demand from non-tech companies.. Despite a search for new sources of electricity, there may need to be more. This means a battle among those who need electricity. The results will undoubtedly be higher rates and political battles.
The electricity competition may turn ugly soon.
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