
AI's Power Consumption Surge and the Transformer Shortage Crisis
Explore the growing concerns over AI data centres' electricity spikes and the global transformer shortage with insights from Hitachi Energy.
In this episode of UK Business Morning, Alice and Lewis dive into the pressing issue of AI data centres' surging electricity use and its impact on the global energy grid. Hitachi Energy’s CEO Andreas Schierenbeck highlights the unpredictable power demands of AI, comparing it to industries that require prior coordination with utilities. With the International Energy Agency predicting data centre consumption to double by 2030, countries like Ireland and the Netherlands are already implementing restrictions. Meanwhile, Hitachi Energy faces a critical transformer shortage, with a $43 billion order backlog, and plans a $6 billion investment to scale production. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the challenges and potential solutions in balancing AI's energy needs with grid stability.