AI-Driven Data Center Energy Demand Expected to Double by 2030

AIE report highlights surging electricity consumption from data centers, driven by generative AI, raising concerns over energy security and emissions growth.

Global electricity consumption by data centers is projected to rise from 415 TWh in 2024 to 945 TWh by 2030, representing nearly 3% of global electricity use.
Generative AI's computational demands are a key driver of this growth, with data center energy use increasing at 12% annually over the past five years.
CO2 emissions from data centers are expected to grow from 180 million tonnes in 2024 to 300 million tonnes by 2035, though they will remain a small fraction of global emissions.
The United States, Europe, and China account for 85% of current data center energy consumption, with the US projected to shoulder nearly half of additional demand.
The AIE emphasizes that while efficiency gains and renewable energy adoption may mitigate some impacts, proactive policies are essential, as AI alone is not a comprehensive environmental solution.

Courrier International