[wmf]

There's a ton of research into more efficient AI algorithms. We've also seen that GPT-5 has better performance despite being no bigger than previous models. GPU/ASIC vendors are also increasing energy efficiency every generation. More datacenters will be needed despite these improvements because we're probably only using 1% of the potential of AI so far.

[zekrioca]

Interesting, if GPUS/ASICS have been improving in energy efficiency, then why is it that total consumption has been exponentially increasing?

[bobthepanda]

Because so many people want to run the models.

You see this in other sectors where demand outstrips improvements in economy. Individual planes use substantially less fuel than they did 50 years ago, because there are now fewer engines on planes and the remaining engines are also more efficient; but the growth in air travel has substantially outpaced that.