Recently, Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, made noteworthy statements during a hearing before the House Energy and Commerce Committee. He asserted that artificial intelligence (AI) will consume 99% of the world's electricity in the future, a claim that sparked considerable attention and discussion among attendees.
Schmidt stated that the technology industry's electricity demand is rapidly increasing, projected to surge from the current 3% to 99%. He added that an additional 29 gigawatts of electricity supply are needed in the coming years, increasing to 67 gigawatts by 2030. He emphasized the urgent need to secure energy supplies, both renewable and non-renewable, to fuel the rapid development of AI.
Discussing international competition, Schmidt specifically mentioned China's development of superintelligent AI as a potential game-changer in global power dynamics. He suggested that a Chinese breakthrough in this area could have unpredictable consequences for the global landscape. This viewpoint was noted by Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie, who described it as a "sober assessment."
However, Schmidt's claims have drawn some skepticism. Some AI researchers believe that superintelligent AI is still a long way off, with current technology falling far short of this goal. Some interpret Schmidt's statements as an attempt to influence lawmakers to be more supportive of the technology industry, ensuring a competitive advantage in the upcoming AI race.
Furthermore, Schmidt highlighted the escalating energy demands of tech companies due to data center energy consumption during the hearing. In the rapidly developing AI field, companies like Elon Musk's xAI face pressure in securing energy supplies, sometimes resorting to potentially illegal methods to circumvent regulations.
Schmidt previously faced criticism for concealing his direct investments in several AI startups while serving as chair of the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence, although this was technically legal. This situation raises concerns about the relationship between tech giants and governments, and how corporations might influence policy to serve their own interests.
Key Takeaways:
🔋 Schmidt warned Congress that AI could consume 99% of the world's electricity in the future.
🌏 He pointed out that China's leading development of superintelligent AI could reshape the global power balance.
⚡ Tech companies face immense energy demands, potentially leading to illegal practices.