Dutton suggests that nuclear power could play a role in fostering AI and datasets in Australia.
Technology has the potential to revitalize struggling businesses nationwide, but this advancement comes with a growing demand for power.
Energy requirements from data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) could emerge as a crucial factor in the ongoing nuclear power discussion.
This topic was brought up on June 20 by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton during an interview on ABC Breakfast’s radio show, where he emphasized the expanding power needs of AI and data technology.
Mr. Dutton highlighted the significance of datasets in supporting local businesses, suggesting they could serve as a lifeline for both business and the economy.
He stated, “We’ve been having detailed discussions with our local representatives who have a deep understanding of their communities and the available options. For instance, in Lithgow, where many shops are closed, we have the opportunity to introduce datasets. While AI is poised to play a significant role in the future, it consumes vast amounts of energy.”
Datasets essentially consist of organized collections of data that can aid businesses in their operations, whether for sophisticated scientific analysis or basic customer preference insights.
However, this data requires increasingly large amounts of power, especially if it is to help revive regional towns and cities.
According to the World Economic Forum, the energy needed to support AI’s growing presence is doubling approximately every 100 days, potentially surpassing Iceland’s entire electricity consumption by 2023.
Industries in rural areas rely on cost-effective operations, necessitating access to dependable and affordable power sources.
Regardless of the chosen solution, the escalating demand for power will become more significant in the future. A tenfold increase in AI efficiency could lead to a potential surge in power requirements by up to 10,000 times.
Efforts are being made to explore shared data centers and cloud computing resources to optimize costs and possibly plan larger tasks during cooler seasons.
The energy needed for AI operations is already growing rapidly at an annual rate of between 26% and 36%.
The issue of powering the evolving world of technology has become a prominent political debate, with differing views on the potential role of nuclear energy.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized Mr. Dutton’s proposal to construct seven nuclear reactors nationwide if he were to be elected, labeling it as an “economic catastrophe.”
Mr. Albanese raised concerns about the lack of specifics in the plan, including cost estimates, timelines, and community engagement processes.
He remarked, “This is ludicrous. To be honest, this amounts to an economic disaster. When we consider the costs associated with nuclear energy, it is known to be the most expensive form of new energy.”
