UN Report Warns AI Could Consume 3% of Global Power by 2030, Threaten Water Supplies

The United Nations released a report on artificial intelligence’s energy footprint. It projects AI will use about 3% of worldwide electricity by 2030.

The United Nations released a report on artificial intelligence’s energy footprint. It projects AI will use about 3% of worldwide electricity by 2030. Such demand could place additional strain on national power grids. The study also highlights increased water usage for data‑center cooling. Rising AI workloads are flagged as a growing climate concern. The UN urges the adoption of sustainable AI development practices. Policymakers are called to create standards for energy‑efficient AI. Monitoring and regulation will be essential to mitigate environmental impact.