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AI Data Centers Emit 548 gCO2/kWh, Reporting Gap Exposed

5/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. researchers published a preprint estimating AI data-center emissions at 548 gCO2/kWh, exposing a major transparency gap.
The International Energy Agency estimated total data-center water consumption at 560 billion liters in 2023.
De Vries-Gao projected AI server deployment could add up to 44 Mt CO2 and 1,125 million m³ water by 2030.
Authors concluded that without mandatory reporting of AI-specific electricity, PUE, WUE and grid carbon intensity, the true environmental impact of AI remains unknown.

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Story summary

U.S. researchers published a preprint estimating AI data-center emissions at 548 gCO2/kWh, exposing a major transparency gap.
The International Energy Agency estimated total data-center water consumption at 560 billion liters in 2023.
De Vries-Gao projected AI server deployment could add up to 44 Mt CO2 and 1,125 million m³ water by 2030.
Authors concluded that without mandatory reporting of AI-specific electricity, PUE, WUE and grid carbon intensity, the true environmental impact of AI remains unknown.