Why AI and Bitcoin Drive Huge Coal Rebound

Doug McIntyre and David Callaway discuss the resurgence of coal as a key energy source, driven by the rising demand for electricity due to AI and Bitcoin mining. Despite predictions that coal and oil would fade away, coal usage remains strong, particularly in countries like India and China. David highlights how big tech companies are rapidly building data centers, significantly increasing energy consumption. In places like Dublin, Ireland, data centers use as much electricity as all the households in the country. This growing energy demand is putting pressure on electric grids, prompting concerns from government officials about ensuring sufficient power for everyone, not just tech giants.

More from ClimateCrisis 247