Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer limited to research laboratories or Silicon Valley. It has arrived at the heart of global energy systems. This was the central message of the recent Global Conference on Energy and AI the International Energy Agency (IEA).
With the GCG - German Commodities Group we are closely monitoring the interface between energy infrastructure, digitalization and market dynamics. Because it directly affects what we do: Develop sustainable, economical and secure energy systems.
The IEA initiative: "Energy for AI & AI for energy"
With the launch of the initiative "Energy for AI & AI for Energy" the IEA is opening a decisive new chapter in global energy strategy. This initiative addresses two parallel, closely interlinked and accelerating developments:
1. Energy demand through AI:
The rapid growth of AI models, cloud computing and data centers is leading to an explosive increase in power consumption - faster than the expansion of our network infrastructure and planning cycles.
2. AI for the energy system:
At the same time, AI offers powerful tools to make energy systems more efficient, resilient and climate-friendly - from power grids to battery storage and forecasting models.
Facts that require attention
The conference made it clear:
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Global data centers could up to More than 1,000 TWh per year in 2026 - the equivalent of Japan's entire electricity consumption.
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In the US state of Virginia data centers already do 30 % of the total electricity consumption from.
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In Ireland the proportion is around 20 %.
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At the same time, global electricity consumption is growing Twice as fast as the total energy requirement.
With the accelerated pace of Electrification and digitalization This has a massive impact on planning and infrastructure.
Strategic pressure points: Location, supply, flexibility
What does this mean for companies like GCG that work at the interface between energy generation, infrastructure and market design?
In short: Network connection, infrastructure planning and PPA structures (Power Purchase Agreements) are becoming even more strategic.
AI not only consumes energy - it changes who when and where how much consumed - and how Reliable this consumption profile must be.
The conference was attended by technology giants such as Google, Microsoft and Nvidia with energy suppliers such as EDF, TotalEnergies and governments of the USA, France, Brazil, Japan and the UAE together. The common realization:
We need more base load capacity, new storage solutions and smarter grid integrationto operate the AI economy sustainably.
AI as a tool for the energy transition
AI is not just a new kind of burden - it is also a Powerful toolin order to Accelerating the energy transition:
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Network optimization: AI improves transparency, reduces overload and supports smarter investments.
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Battery innovation: Generative AI accelerates the discovery of new materials for modern storage technologies.
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Forecasts: AI improves the accuracy of forecasts for renewable energy generation and weather events.
Example: Google's project "Tapestry" helps to map network structures and supports Chile's Transition to a climate-neutral electricity system.
GCG: Rethinking infrastructure
At GCG, we are convinced: it's time, Rethinking infrastructure planning. The relevant questions are no longer just:
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Where should we build?
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What will it cost?
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Who bears the risk?
But increasingly:
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How will AI, mobility and the digital industry change demand in the next 5-10 years?
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What mix of renewable energies, storage, base load and flexibility is needed - locally and globally?
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How do we design PPAs that work with fluctuating, data-driven demand?
We bring Perspectives from industry, utilities and investment together to Energy systems for a smarter and more volatile future to design.
What's next from the IEA?
The IEA is planning to publish a comprehensive special report on energy & AI in spring 2025 with:
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Reliable figures and forecasts
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Practical recommendations for industry and politics
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A platform for international coordination
At the same time, decision-makers are pushing the issue politically:
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France is planning a high-ranking AI Action Summit in February 2025.
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Brazil prioritized AI and renewable energies during his G20 and COP30 presidencies.
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The European Commission works on Standards for energy efficiency in AI and Regulations for secure infrastructures.
Conclusion: change is accelerating - and we are ready
Energy for AI. AI for energy.
This is no longer a vision of the future. It is already influencing Investment decisions, Regulation and Infrastructure priorities worldwide.
At GCG we are ready.
We bring Deep understanding of the market, Trustworthy partner networks and the ability to, Translate technological disruption into practical infrastructure.
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