A new United Nations report warns that the rapid growth of artificial intelligence will lead to a doubling of electricity consumption by data centers globally by 2030. This increase is driven by the energy-intensive processes required to operate and cool these facilities, which power AI applications. The report highlights a significant risk to climate goals if this demand isn’t met with renewable energy sources. Currently, data centers account for approximately 1% of global electricity use, a figure projected to rise substantially. The UN urges greater efficiency in data center operations and a swift transition to sustainable power. Without intervention, the escalating energy needs of AI could hinder efforts to limit global warming and achieve net-zero emissions targets. The report calls for international cooperation and policy changes to address this growing challenge.