AI and heat waves pose dual threats to the power grid: Morning Brief
How are heat waves affecting the power grid's load?
Heat waves increase the demand for electricity due to increased use of air conditioning and other cooling systems, which can strain the power grid and potentially cause blackouts. Extreme heat can also reduce the efficiency of power generation and transmission, impacting both renewable and conventional power plants6.
What are the energy demands of AI compared to a Google search?
AI's energy demands are significantly higher than a Google search. A ChatGPT query, for example, requires almost 10 times as much electricity to process as a Google search does. This has implications for the sustainability goals of technology companies and puts a massive new strain on the power grid.
How might AI-driven clean energy innovation be accelerated?
AI-driven clean energy innovation can be accelerated by focusing on three key trends: 1) decarbonization of energy-intensive sectors, 2) increasing renewable energy deployment, and 3) adopting next-generation digital technologies like AI. By designing AI that's fit for purpose, governing its use responsibly, and enabling its deployment at scale, stakeholders can unlock AI's potential in the energy sector, leading to a more efficient, clean, and interconnected energy system.