Will Future AI Demands Derail Sustainable Energy Initiatives?
Some experts believe that with its almost endless number of applications, artificial intelligence promises many benefits. But one thing AI proponents rarely acknowledge is the technology's voracious energy appetite. Because many AI-powered devices, such as continuously operating thermostats, constantly consume power, their energy use needs careful consideration in any efficiency equation. "It's crucial to strategically deploy AI, such as in thermostat controls, while also grappling with broader cultural and business model questions," said Jonathan Bean, associate professor of architecture, sustainable built environments and marketing at the University of Arizona. "Tech companies often innovate with new AI-driven products but must balance profitability with societal and environmental impacts."