“AI’s Energy Demands: A Potential Threat to US Infrastructure” • The Register

A Deloitte Insights report highlights a significant surge in energy demands from AI datacenters in the U.S., projecting that power requirements could exceed 123 GW by 2035, up from the current 4 GW. With infrastructure growth slow due to bureaucratic hurdles and supply chain disruptions, there are already 5 GW facilities in development. Despite goals for cleaner energy, much of the new demand is met through gas-fired generation. The lengthy approval processes for grid connections and the rising costs of key materials pose additional challenges. Suggested solutions include technological innovations for energy efficiency, regulatory reforms to expedite projects, and substantial funding to bridge potential energy gaps. Without action, these constraints could hinder AI progress, impacting U.S. economic and geopolitical standing. Ensuring robust infrastructure is increasingly seen as essential for maintaining competitiveness in the AI era, with enormous implications for national security.

Source link