A Business Insider investigation reveals that the booming data center industry is driving utility companies to rely on fossil fuels, undermining renewable energy goals and leading to projected public health costs of $5.7 billion to $9.2 billion annually. With 1,240 data center permits filed as of 2024, electricity demand may reach up to 239.3 terawatt-hours, comparable to the entire state's usage. Despite claims of efficiency and clean energy commitments from tech giants, the surge in demand challenges the feasibility of relying on renewables alone.
The increasing demand for electricity from data centers, estimated to reach 239.3 terawatt-hours annually, presents a significant challenge to renewable energy goals.
Tech companies emphasize their commitment to clean energy, yet the rapid growth of data centers relies heavily on fossil fuels for reliable and cheaper electricity.
Collection
[
|
...
]