The rise of AI-driven internet queries raises concerns among climate-conscious individuals due to significant energy consumption and carbon emissions. ChatGPT estimates energy use at up to 0.34 watt-hours per query, while Google’s Gemini averages 0.24 watt-hours, equivalent to brief periods of light or TV use. Impressively, Google reports a 97% reduction in energy consumption and a 98% decrease in carbon emissions per Gemini search over the past year. This progress results from two main strategies: utilizing renewable energy and enhancing chip efficiency, with Google’s custom TPUs becoming 30 times more efficient since 2018. However, as AI demand surges, the challenge lies in continuing efficiency improvements while managing infrastructure demands. The future of energy investment in the U.S. hinges on balancing AI growth with sustainable practices. Companies and policymakers must navigate these dynamics to ensure that advancements in efficiency outpace the carbon footprints of increasing AI usage.
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