Datacentre Power Surge: Tech Giants Devour 6 Of Global Energy Supply

The world’s reliance on technology has led to a significant increase in the consumption of electricity by datacentres, with these vast warehouses of microchips and servers now accounting for a substantial portion of global energy usage. According to recent research by the International Data Center Authority (IDCA), datacentres are now consuming an astonishing 6% of the electricity supply in the UK and US, highlighting the growing strain on energy supplies.

This surge in power usage is largely driven by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, with annual global investment in datacentres approaching a staggering $1 trillion (£740 billion). This represents nearly 1% of the global economy, underscoring the significant impact that these facilities are having on energy supplies. The IDCA’s research suggests that this trend is expected to continue, with energy usage rising by an additional 15% worldwide over the past two years.

The UK and US are at the forefront of this trend, with datacentres now accounting for 5.9% and 6% of electricity consumption respectively. These figures far exceed the global average of 2%, highlighting the significant strain that these facilities are placing on national grids. The queue to connect to the grid in the UK has grown by an alarming 460% in the first half of 2025, further underscoring the issue.

The growing concern over energy usage is being felt globally, with tech companies facing increasing pressure to be more transparent about their plans for new datacentres. A proposed Microsoft-backed AI data center would require a third of Kenya’s electricity, sparking concerns over the country’s ability to meet its energy demands [1]. Similarly, The Data Centers Have Arrived at the Edge of the Arctic Circle, where climate concerns are growing due to potential water scarcity and increased energy consumption [2].

The growth of datacentres is also having a significant impact on water supplies, with Greenpeace UK warning that an “unchecked AI boom” would lead to higher energy bills and more stress on water resources. Doug Parr, the campaign group’s chief scientist, urged policymakers to pause and consider the consequences of this rapid expansion.

We need more transparency about the amount of water and energy used by data centres, proper environmental impact assessments, and a ban on new polluting plants being built to power AI [3]. This call to action is well-timed, given the recent estimates by the International Energy Agency that energy use rose 17% in 2025, outpacing growth in global electricity demand of 3%.

The IDCA’s research also highlights a worrying trend: the rise of “zombie” services in datacentres. These are running apps that were never switched off but are unused, consuming an estimated 13% of datacentre consumption in the US. This wasted consumption totals in excess of 3GW, underscoring the need for greater efficiency and sustainability in datacentre design.

Furthermore, the report notes that cybersecurity is now twinned with physical security as part-and-parcel of a unified, comprehensive security strategy. The recent attacks on datacentres in the Middle East have highlighted the growing threat to these critical infrastructure facilities, emphasizing the need for robust security measures to protect against breaches and cyber-attacks.

As the world continues to grapple with the challenges posed by AI and cloud computing, it is clear that greater transparency, accountability, and sustainability are required. The IDCA’s research serves as a timely reminder of the significant impact that datacentres are having on energy supplies and highlights the need for policymakers, tech companies, and individuals to work together to address these concerns.

In conclusion, the rise of datacentres has had a profound impact on energy supplies worldwide, with the UK and US leading the charge. As the global economy continues to grow, it is essential that we prioritize sustainability and efficiency in our technological advancements. By doing so, we can mitigate the negative impacts of this trend and ensure a more equitable distribution of resources for future generations.

The growth of datacentres also highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the tech industry. As AI and cloud computing continue to evolve, it is crucial that policymakers, regulators, and companies prioritize environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and cybersecurity. By working together, we can harness the power of technology while minimizing its negative impacts on our planet.

In light of these findings, it is essential that policymakers, business leaders, and individuals take a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges posed by datacentres. This includes implementing policies and regulations that promote sustainability, efficiency, and transparency in datacentre design and operation. By doing so, we can ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Moreover, the growth of datacentres has significant implications for global energy supplies, water resources, and climate change mitigation. As such, it is imperative that we prioritize a comprehensive approach to address these concerns, one that balances economic growth with environmental sustainability.

The world’s reliance on technology will only continue to grow in the coming years, and it is essential that we are prepared to meet the challenges posed by this trend. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and sustainability, we can harness the power of datacentres while minimizing their negative impacts on our planet.

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