
The rapid expansion of data centers, driven by the increasing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, is placing significant strain on the U.S. power grid. Big Tech companies, while advocating for zero emissions, are facing criticism for the substantial environmental impact of their data centers. These facilities are projected to consume over 6% of all U.S. electricity by 2028, with some estimates suggesting they could use up to 9% by 2030. In Virginia, data centers are expected to account for 36% of the state's electricity use. The environmental cost of AI, including high energy consumption and water usage, has raised concerns about the sustainability of these technologies. ChatGPT's massive environmental cost highlights the broader issue of AI's resource consumption.



UNITED STATES: Reuters reports that data centers could end up using 9% of total electricity generated in the country by 2030
Big tech is playing its part in reaching net zero targets, but its vast new datacentres are run at huge cost to the environment. 🏗️ "The ugly truth behind ChatGPT: AI is guzzling resources at planet-eating rates" by @MazzucatoM via @guardian. https://t.co/ahCvmW66vN
AI data center demand poised to juice US power needs - Axios https://t.co/401g12WJWZ