AI Boom Could Lead to Surge in Electricity Use, Study Warns

New study warns AI technology could cause a surge in electricity consumption, potentially using as much as some small countries like Ireland.

Increased use of powerful AI servers and generative AI could dramatically increase tech companies' energy demands.

In 2021, AI accounted for 10-15% of Google's electricity use. Full AI adoption could boost that to a country-scale level.

Solutions proposed include using alternative energy sources like flare gas from oil drilling and biogas from landfills.

More efficient hardware and software could help offset electricity demands, but increased efficiency may also boost AI adoption and total energy use.