A warning sign about AI’s real cost, courtesy of Google and Amazon

Amazon and Google have reported increased energy consumption due to artificial intelligence operations. Both companies have public commitments to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 and 2040 respectively. The companies' data centers supporting AI systems have expanded power demand faster than renewable energy capacity additions in their portfolios. Amazon stated in its 2024 sustainability report that data center energy use grew significantly year-over-year, while Google reported similar increases in energy intensity.

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