The Greener Algorithm: AI's Role In Smarter Energy Use

In our recent commentary on generative artificial intelligence (AI), available here, we explored the growing energy demands of data centres. Generative AI refers to algorithms capable of producing various types of content, including text, images, videos, and other data, in response to user queries. Well-known examples include Gemini, ChatGPT, AlphaCode, Midjourney, and DALL-E. These models rely on data centres that house the processing infrastructure required to train and operate them. Analysts estimate that the power demand of these centres will increase by 160% by 2030.

Given this rising energy demand, tech companies are exploring alternative energy sources. Our thoughts on the potential use of nuclear power to meet the energy needs of data centres can be found here. Additionally, significant recent news coverage seen here, has focused on the water usage in the cooling systems used in data centres. Beyond sourcing low-carbon energy and closed-loop cooling systems