Additional to Guy's analysis I've found that AI energy consumption doubled in 2023 compared to 2022, can anyone else see the exponential function?
"Scientists have estimated that the power requirements of data centers in North America increased from 2,688 megawatts at the end of 2022 to 5,341 megawatts at the end of 2023, partly driven by the demands of generative AI. Globally, the electricity consumption of data centers rose to 460 terawatts in 2022. This would have made data centers the 11th largest electricity consumer in the world, between the nations of Saudi Arabia (371 terawatts) and France (463 terawatts), according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development."
I have a high voltage switching and protection certification from London Electricity Board, I'll be surprised if that kind of consumption growth was ever expected or factored into grid continuity.
Additionally, they consume enormous amounts of water for cooling.
I question this statement: "The vast majority of us would like somebody else to do the work on our behalf." Not that I don't believe it's true, because I believe it is. But I question if we really do want someone else to do the "work", whatever that might be. Because doing the work ourselves so often leads to personal satisfaction and growth. Where will our personal satisfaction/growth come from when we don't have to do the work, or the thinking?
The new technology will not save us from the old technology.
I agree, Grant. Thank you for commenting.
Additional to Guy's analysis I've found that AI energy consumption doubled in 2023 compared to 2022, can anyone else see the exponential function?
"Scientists have estimated that the power requirements of data centers in North America increased from 2,688 megawatts at the end of 2022 to 5,341 megawatts at the end of 2023, partly driven by the demands of generative AI. Globally, the electricity consumption of data centers rose to 460 terawatts in 2022. This would have made data centers the 11th largest electricity consumer in the world, between the nations of Saudi Arabia (371 terawatts) and France (463 terawatts), according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development."
I have a high voltage switching and protection certification from London Electricity Board, I'll be surprised if that kind of consumption growth was ever expected or factored into grid continuity.
Additionally, they consume enormous amounts of water for cooling.
https://news.mit.edu/2025/explained-generative-ai-environmental-impact-0117
This fascinating interview with an AI insider will put a chill up your spine.
I've dropped Guy's analysis on the YouTube thread on this video suggesting they interview Guy.
Me signing Guy up for more unpaid work!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecqTJHlXkKA
I think a few of us can see the exponential function. Only a few, though. It’s difficult to see the forest when one is surrounded by trees!
Thank you for your ongoing collegiality. I greatly appreciate your efforts in sharing, liking, and adding to my work.
This is from 8 years ago, it will be much worse now.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bitcoin-mining-energy-consumption/
!!!!
I question this statement: "The vast majority of us would like somebody else to do the work on our behalf." Not that I don't believe it's true, because I believe it is. But I question if we really do want someone else to do the "work", whatever that might be. Because doing the work ourselves so often leads to personal satisfaction and growth. Where will our personal satisfaction/growth come from when we don't have to do the work, or the thinking?
Excellent point, Mez. Satisfaction is a worthy goal.