Artificial Intelligence Stands As A Challenge For Clean Energy Transition

By Shubhendra Anand , 26 July, 2024

Artificial intelligence is reigning over every sector of the economy in the era of technology. It has set up its era rather than being a part of technology only. Recent developments in artificial intelligence make it very important from the perspective of clean energy transition. One part of the advancement deals with the advent of artificial intelligence while the other part shows its run towards greener environmental transformation. These phenomena have a different impact on the world economy. Artificial intelligence will deal with a lot of advancements in the field of technology in 2024. However, experts raise whether artificial intelligence supports clean energy transition or distracts it regarding materials used.

It is to be noted that data centers are said to be powered by artificial intelligence. This is due to the constant electricity supply from renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. However, hydrocarbons and nuclear energy will meet the electricity demands from data centers in 2024. The recent development of AI stands with the virtual development of data centers to support the clean energy transition. However, the major issue with artificial intelligence is that all aspects of the industry require raw materials and energy for its functioning. Artificial intelligence requires a massive amount of copper to utilize the technology properly. The availability of raw materials to power artificial intelligence is the main issue arising in 2024. Copper is the main component that enhances the usage of artificial intelligence in the energy sector. Installing wind and solar power requires copper as a raw material. With the growing demand for electric vehicles, the need for copper has grown exponentially. Although all these aspects may sound good to copper miners, it doesn't seem easy for industries that need copper as a raw material.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the data centers need a lot of electricity. This is due to the increasing use of artificial intelligence. Hence, it requires up to 1.5 percent of electricity for usage. Along with this transformation, the requirement for wind and solar energy will grow to meet the demands of uninterrupted electricity. Therefore, the growing advent of artificial intelligence seems challenging in 2024 as clean energy transformation is at its peak in the same year.

Copper’s Role On Clean Energy Transition