The link between energy and artificial intelligence: an increasingly close relationship
The link betweeen energy and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the global technological and industrial landscape. These two sectors are becoming more and more interconnected, as, despite being the world’s biggest consumer of electrical energy, AI tries to transform its own operational methods in order to reduce energy consumption.
Managing this combination effectively means that a delicate balance must be established as soon as possible and subsequently maintained. This requires a solution capable of reconciling the development of artificial neural networks with the need to ensure global energy sustainability.
The importance of artificial intelligence today
Before examining the close connection between energy and artificial intelligence, it is important to realise that AI represents one of the most revolutionary and innovative technologies of our era. Thanks to its ability to process huge quantities of data, learn from the results and automate complex processes, AI is changing mankind’s approach to the global challenges it faces.
As a branch of IT, AI focuses on the creation of systems capable of simulating human cognitive functions, such as learning, reasoning, perception and problem solving. It is based on advanced algorithms, machine learning models and neural networks, which enable machines to analyse data and take autonomous decisions.
It has already been applied to a wide range of environments, completely transforming traditional sectors and bringing new opportunities. The most important areas it is now used in include:
- healthcare: the use of AI has become crucial in the early diagnosis and treatment of illness. Advanced algorithms analyse medical images, like x-rays and scans, in order to detect abnormalities, often with greater precision than that of human beings. Furthermore, AI based systems now assist in the development of new medicines, allowing clinical research to progress faster and reducing costs;
- the economy and work: in the world of work, AI is used to automate repetitive procedures, improving productivity and enabling workers to concentrate on more creative, strategic tasks. However, this transformation requires the workforce to be retrained in the skills necessary to deal with the changes introduced by automation;
- the environment: AI plays a key role in environmental monitoring and in the fight against climate change. Intelligent systems analyse large quantitites of data in order to predict extreme meteorological events, optimise how natural resources are used and reduce energy wastage;
- education: in the field of education, AI is used to customise learning according to students’ individual needs, improving learning efficiency. Online platforms use algorithms to adapt content in real time, making education accessible to a huge number of people.
Despite its advantages, AI still poses some signficant ethical and social dilemmas. The risks of algorithm discrimination, job losses in certain sectors and the need to protect privacy and sensitive personal data are all key challenges to be tackled appropriately. Furthermore, the improper use of neural networks in sectors such as surveillance or autonomous weapons raises concerns regarding security and human rights.
The role of energy in the development of AI
The spread of artificial intelligence and digital technologies requires complex infrastructures like data centres, which form the beating heart of that ecosystem. Such centres, which house data processing and storage systems, consume signficant amounts of electricity.
Although the total energy consumed by global data centres is currently only around 1% of total consumption, demand is much higher in some regions. In Ireland for example, data centres account for 20% of electricity consumption, while in some areas of the United States, such as Virginia, this figure exceeds 25%.
The aim of the political and industrial organisations involved is to ensure a secure, sustainable energy supply in order to support this growing demand. It is also essential to invest in renewable energy sources, improve the efficiency of digital infrastructures and implement technologies to provide intelligent resource management.
AI as a catalyst for energy innovation
As mentioned above, as well as being a major consumer of electricity, artificial intelligence is also a driving force behind the transformation of the energy sector. Thanks to its advanced analytical and automated learning capabilities, AI can improve every aspect of the energy cycle, from production to distribution and use.
For example, AI is able to optimise the management of electricity networks, by forecasting demand levels in real time and adjusting production accordingly. This approach not only has the capability to reduce wastage, it also improves the stability of the system, reducing the chance of power outages.
Furthermore, AI is working to accelerate the discovery of new materials and energy technologies, such as new generation batteries or renewable energy systems. It is in the context of the green energy transition that the link between energy and artificial intelligence can fulfil its true potential, as it is able to:
- provide tools to expand the reach of renewable energy sources;
- manage their variability;
- facilitate their implementation in existing networks using more efficient methods.
As a result, this could incentivise the adoption of clean technologies on a global scale while making a significant contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Future challenges facing the link between energy and artificial intelligence
The link between energy and artificial intelligence is destined to become increasingly crucial in the coming years. In any case, this relationship brings significant challenges. The need for electricity to power AI could enter into conflict with global targets on the reduction of emissions, making the adoption of a strategic, well coordinated approach indispensable.
In order to face this challenge, it is essential that a dialogue between governments, the tech industry and energy companies is estalished as soon as possible, as demonstrated at the recent Global Conference on Energy & AI. This event highlighted the importance of a coherent approach to exploiting the opportunities offered by AI, without overlooking sustainability issues.
International collaboration, such as that announced between Canada, France and Korea, is an important step towards building a shared vision. The purpose is to develop policies and technological solutions aimed at meeting AI’s energy needs sustainably, while reducing the risks related to climate change and the use of natural resources to a minimum.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
