AI data centers 'consume' 1% of global electricity: What solutions to optimize?

AI explosion and the problem of electricity consumption

The rapid development of AI is creating unprecedented demand for electricity in data centers. Advanced AI models like ChatGPT or Midjourney require processing with GPUs and specialized hardware, requiring powerful computing infrastructure from cloud data centers, rather than regular personal devices.

“ We have talked to a number of data center investors, some of whom are expected to require up to 2 gigawatts of power – equivalent to the consumption of more than 2 million households,” said James Walker, CEO of Nano Nuclear Energy Inc.

In addition, technology analyst Jack Gold also said that Elon Musk's XAI data center in Tennessee can consume electricity equivalent to tens of thousands of homes.

AI data centers account for about 1% of total global electricity (Illustration photo)

According to Alex de Vries, founder of DigiEconomist, data centers currently account for about 1% of total global electricity consumption. However, with the development of AI, this number could increase to 3-4% in the near future, even surpassing the electricity consumption of the whole of France.

Breakthrough in AI Energy Management

Faced with the growing problem of electricity consumption, Schneider Electric and ETAP have collaborated to develop an advanced digital twin for the AI ​​Factory, officially launched on March 28, 2025.

Built on NVIDIA’s Omniverse™ Blueprint, this digital twin not only accurately simulates energy demands but also optimizes data center operations. The solution integrates multiple elements such as electrical, mechanical, thermal, and networking systems, providing a comprehensive view of plant operations.

As a result, businesses can forecast electricity consumption with high accuracy, flexibly analyze "What-If" scenarios, monitor real-time power infrastructure performance, optimize energy, implement predictive maintenance, and reduce operating costs.

Advanced digital twin AI factory helps optimize energy, reduce operating costs. (Source: Etap)

Dion Harris, Senior Director of AI Factory Solutions at NVIDIA, commented:

" Accurate energy management is key to ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of AI. Working with Schneider Electric and ETAP helps us deliver unprecedented visibility and control over our data center infrastructure ."

In addition, this technology helps realize the “Grid to Chip” approach, allowing dynamic load modeling at the microchip level, thereby improving power system design and enhancing grid efficiency.

PEARL

Link: Source: Interesting Engineering

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