• Data centres powering AI are dramatically increasing global energy demand
• Economic growth and carbon emissions, once decoupled, are again destructive
• AI expands unsustainable production and consumption
• Demand for digital devices increases CO2 emissions, mining, ecosystem loss, and marginalizes communities
• Rapid device obsolescence and weak recycling undermine the circular economy
• AI enhances energy efficiency
•Adaptive, decentralized intelligent energy systems are emerging
• Optimized generation, distribution, and consumption for economic and environmental outcomes
• AI linked to GIS, spatial modeling, forecasting, smart land use, and more
• Novel digital toolbox for diagnostics, land management, and societal synergies
• New storage solutions eliminate renewable intermittency, enabling efficiency in the Global South
• Distributed generation and optimal dispatch offer environmental and economic gains
• System stability via grid thermal limit compliance and congestion reduction
• Advances in material science and battery chemistry, intelligent storage, and innovative finance will drive progress
The intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), energy solutions, and data centre infrastructure offers transformative potential for planetary wellbeing by optimizing energy consumption, accelerating renewable transitions, and mitigating environmental impacts. AI-driven systems enhance grid efficiency, predict demand, and enable real-time storage management. Machine learning identifies patterns for smarter production, distribution, and storage, building more sustainable infrastructure. Data centre expansion, while critical for AI, increases energy use—requiring novel, AI-driven storage solutions. AI optimization can support renewable-powered data centres, improve PUE, and enable transparent monitoring. Energy-efficient architecture, circular hardware, and site selection for clean energy can transform data centres into sustainable digital hubs. The convergence of AI, energy storage, and transformation is a strategic pathway to a resilient, low-carbon future. Responsive governance, international cooperation, and environmental and social responsibility are essential to realize these benefits.
