The rapid rise of AI has become a major driving force behind the expansion of data centers. Developing and using AI systems require vast amounts of computing power, which greatly increases electricity demand.
Footprint
Recent research by the United Nations reveals that the ecological footprint of artificial intelligence is much larger than users often realize. The study highlights not only the high electricity consumption but also the use of water, land, and other resources needed to keep data centers operational.
According to the UN study, data centers' energy consumption will continue to rise in the coming years. The proportion of AI within the total electricity consumption of data centers is also growing rapidly. The researchers warn that the consequences extend beyond the energy sector alone.
Promotion
The expansion of data centers is putting increasing pressure on electricity grids. New sites require not only power but also connections, cooling, and space. This drives a growing need for investments in energy and grid infrastructure.
Waiting Times
In the Netherlands, this pressure is already visible, causing construction plans to be delayed. The power grid struggles with capacity issues in various locations. For new data centers, waiting times for a connection can be long, making immediate expansion not always possible.
Water consumption is also gaining more attention. Data centers use large amounts of water for cooling. According to the researchers, governments should therefore look not only at greenhouse gas emissions but also at the impacts on water use and land occupation.
Not Less but More
The researchers emphasize that more efficient technology does not automatically lead to lower energy consumption. When AI becomes cheaper and more accessible, usage often continues to increase. As a result, savings can be partly or entirely offset by additional demand.
Governments and companies are urged to carefully assess the consequences of new data centers in advance. This assessment should weigh energy use, water use, available grid capacity, and other environmental effects together before approving new (construction) projects.