- The boom in artificial intelligence and quantum computing would cause great energy use, around six-fold in 10 years.
- The current moment is pivotal for grid transformation.
- Data Centre have become a physical home to today’s digital information and other IT equipment at the expense of environment.
The National Grid has projected that the flourishment of AI and quantum computing will lead to a possible six-fold increase in energy use, marking a pivotal moment for transformation.
Rising energy demand and grid transformation
The National Grid anticipates a surge in energy consumption driven by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing, both reliant on data centres.
Also read: CtrlS to triple its data centre count to 25 by FY25
“The power those data centres use would increase six-fold in the next decade.” said the Chief Executive John Pettigrew. The grid was becoming “constrained”, as Mr Pettigrew addressed, which poses significant challenges for the grid and necessitating bold action to accommodate escalating demand in this pivotal moment for grid transformation.
Also read: True IDC invests $280m in Thailand’s eco-friendly data centres
Energy consumption challenges in Data Centres
Data centres have already integrated with modern life and technology, but related computing requirements come with environmental costs.
Also read: Microsoft’s data centre consumes massive amount of water
With the rapid expansion of the AI industry, studies warn that by 2027, its energy consumption alone could rival that of a country like the Netherlands.
The electricity consumption of data centres in the Republic of Ireland has increased by 400% since 2015, sparking discussions regarding capacity.
Potential of quantum computing
While still in experimental stages, quantum computers hold promise for future scientific breakthroughs and advancements in secure communication methods.
Also read: China to build billion-dollar national computing network
