AI in College: Energy Strain on Data Centers

AI Surge Fuels Data Center Boom, Sparking Environmental Concerns - A new study reveals that 86% of college students use AI for schoolwork, with a quarter relying on it daily. This AI boom is driving a massive expansion of data centers, particularly in Virginia, which hosts over 250 facilities handling 70% of global internet traffic. These centers consumed over 33 million megawatt-hours of electricity in 2023, enough to power over 3 million homes for a year. Nationally, data center energy use has surged from 58 terawatt-hours in 2014 to 176 in 2023, and its projected to rise further by 2028. Residents and environmental groups in Virginia are opposing new data center plans due to high power needs, air pollution, and emissions from a still fossil-fueled grid. Virginias data centers accounted for 30% of U.S. emissions from 200 facilities in 2023, tripling since 2018 and clashing with clean energy goals. Local proposals have faced delays and withdrawals due to community outcry, and over 50 related bills were introduced in Virginias 2026 assembly. Experts emphasize the need for smarter AI habits and lessons on tracking personal footprints as awareness of the environmental impact grows. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9d384ff8795531ac