Exploring Artificial Intelligence's Impact on the Environment and Clean Energy Solutions
Artificial Intelligence's Role in Environmentalism
The rise of artificial intelligence promises advancements in clean energy by offering new ways to lower emissions and adjust to climate impacts. However, the computing power needed to operate generative AI is itself a massive energy consumer.
Insights from Experts
To discuss this complex relationship between AI and the climate, leading experts from technology and energy companies came together at an event at Newsweek headquarters to have a conversation about whether AI is a climate hero or villain.
- Event Date: September 25
- Moderated by: Jeff Young, Environmental and Sustainability Editor at Newsweek
- Panelists included:
- Bobby Hollis, Microsoft VP of Energy
- Amen Ra Mashariki, Bezos Earth Fund Director
- Suzanne DiBianca, Salesforce Chief Impact Officer
- Heather Quinley, Duke Energy Managing Director
- Priya Donti, MIT Assistant Professor
Power Demand Concerns
The conversation explored how the benefits provided by AI-assisted breakthroughs could negate the related power demands needed to generate them. The topic is gaining importance every day, as evidenced by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) study released in May, showing that data center power usage could eat up to 9 percent of U.S. electricity generation by 2030, more than double the current usage.
Recently, the White House expressed optimism about meeting the energy needs related to AI.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.