AI doubles data center consumption
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Jun 03, 2026 · Last updated Jun 04, 2026
The report from the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health>>> highlights significant environmental concerns related to the growth of Artificial intelligence and data centers. This could lead to increased scrutiny and potential regulations on technology companies and data center operators, impacting their operational costs and investment strategies in sustainable infrastructure. Utilities and environmental services industries may see increased demand for solutions to manage power and water consumption, and electronic waste.
A report by the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health>>> warns that data centers, driven by the surge in Artificial intelligence demand, are projected to double their power and water consumption by 2030. Last year, data centers consumed 448 terawatt-hours of electricity and 4.5 trillion liters of water, with Artificial intelligence accounting for a fifth of the total. By 2030, these figures are expected to reach 945 TWh (comparable to Japan>>>'s total consumption) and 9.3 trillion liters, respectively. The report, led by Kaveh Madani>>>, emphasizes that Artificial intelligence is not just software but also physical infrastructure with significant environmental implications, including increased land footprint and carbon dioxide emissions. It calls for responsible planning to prevent resource pressures.
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