Data centers’ electricity use is set to double by 2030, driven by AI, equaling Japan’s current consumption and prompting urgent energy planning.
The Growing Demand
Data centers are becoming insatiable beasts. By 2030, their appetite for electricity will more than double. The International Energy Agency reports that, driven largely by AI, these centers will consume 945 terawatt-hours. That’s as much power as Japan uses now. In 2024, they took up 415 TWh, a mere 1.5% of the world’s total electricity. Yet, AI servers demand more. They already account for a significant chunk of this consumption. It is a quiet storm growing louder, and we must pay heed.
The AI Factor
AI is the engine behind this growth. It needs more servers, more power. The report says AI servers made up 24% of the server electricity demand in 2024. But some like Alex de Vries think the true number is higher. He warns about underestimations. The truth is, AI’s hunger will only grow. Data centers run more than just AI, but AI is the fastest-growing part. The numbers may be uncertain, but the trend is clear. We are entering a new age of power consumption.
Power Struggles
The US, Europe, and China lead the charge. They consume 85% of the energy used by data centers today. By 2030, their demand will rise further. Developing countries will play a smaller role, only adding 5% to the growth. Advanced economies will take the lion’s share, over 20%. Countries are rushing to build power plants and upgrade grids. Yet, 20% of planned centers may still wait for grid connections. The race for energy is on, and the stakes are high.
Facing the Future
In the face of this demand, the world must plan. Governments and companies need to consider infrastructure and AI deployment. The power required is immense. It’s a sharp reminder of our reliance on technology. We must balance progress with sustainability. The numbers speak of a struggle, but also of a challenge. It is a call to action, to think of new solutions before it’s too late. For every kilowatt-hour saved, a step towards a sustainable future is taken.
