AI’s energy impact is still small—but how we handle it is huge

Innovation in IT has revolutionized computing power and energy efficiency, but as AI's accuracy improved, so did its energy demands, leading to growing concerns about future electricity use. While data centers initially seemed manageable, projections suggest they could soon account for a significant portion of the US’s electricity supply, endangering both costs and ecosystems. However, despite these challenges, the positive impacts of AI on climate, buildings, and transportation may outweigh its downsides if properly harnessed. A coordinated effort involving public and private investments is crucial to address growing energy demands while supporting decarbonization efforts.