The Green Backbone: Energy Efficiency in Data Centers
Anupama Mishra
Digital transformation | Green Energy Evolution | Clean Energy Tech | Transformation Strategist | ex-Capgemini | ex-ReNew
Edition 1: Of AI, For AI and By AI
Data centers power our digital lives, but their energy appetite is massive. Hyperscalers and mega data centers are the primary energy guzzlers today, and as AI grows, edge data centers will rise to deliver low-latency, real-time processing closer to users.
Of AI:
Over the last five years, AI and digital services have supercharged energy consumption. Some of the largest data centers consume mind-boggling amounts of energy, a trend set to accelerate as AI evolves. If we analyze few of the largest global data centers, it’s easy to see that their energy consumption is humongous.
For AI:
AI is a game-changer. The global AI market, valued at $136.55 billion in 2022, is growing at a staggering CAGR of 37.3%. By 2030, AI is expected to add $15.7 trillion to the global economy. But this growth has a cost: data center energy consumption is projected to double from 460 TWh (2023) to 1,000 TWh by 2030, with AI being a significant driver.
By AI:
The twist? AI itself is turning savior. It’s revolutionizing how data centers operate. AI’s energy demands risk outpacing the efficiency gains achieved through improved PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness).
Looking Ahead
The rise of AI-focused data centers is inevitable. But so is the effort to go green. Investments in renewable energy, energy-efficient hardware, and smarter designs are reshaping the future of data centers, ensuring they remain the backbone of a sustainable digital world.
Let’s power the future responsibly—with AI leading the charge.
#renewableenergy #zelestra