What Powers Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

What powers artificial intelligence (AI)? As global electricity use is surging, with unprecedented demand coming from an increase in data centers, AI’s dependence on fossil fuels presents a serious issue for the planet. In the United States, data center power usage is on track to double by 2030, largely due to the proliferation of AI technology. But while the application of AI shows potential to mitigate climate problems, will its power grab stall the clean energy transition?

This episode was originally released by Why It Matters on December 3, 2024.

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Host

Gabrielle Sierra
Podcast Host and Director of Podcasting

Episode Guests

Varun Sivaram
Senior Fellow for Climate and Energy, CFR

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