In the next few years, AI’s insatiable need for energy is likely to grow, which could cause data centers to run out of power
A new report from Gartner says that new servers used 195 terawatt-hours of power last year. That’s the same amount that 18 million homes use all year. But by 2027, new computers might be able to use 500 terawatt-hours, which is enough power for 46 million homes.
That’s on top of the power that current data centers use. A Goldman Sachs estimate from 2022 says they used 349 terawatt hours of power. Without more carbon-free power sources, AI training and use could cause huge smog. Sam Altman made over $375 million in bets on fusion power. It’s beginning to make more sense.