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AI's Hidden Costs: Water and Energy Consumption Soars

1/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

As AI technology surges, experts raise alarms over its escalating energy and water consumption. A striking study reveals that crafting just a 100-word email with ChatGPT guzzles 18 ounces of water and 0.14 kWh of electricity. In response, California lawmakers are stepping up, proposing bills to encourage sustainable practices in data centers amid critical water management challenges.

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Story summary

As AI technology surges, experts raise alarms over its escalating energy and water consumption. A striking study reveals that crafting just a 100-word email with ChatGPT guzzles 18 ounces of water and 0.14 kWh of electricity. In response, California lawmakers are stepping up, proposing bills to encourage sustainable practices in data centers amid critical water management challenges.