Artificial intelligence (AI) consumes massive amounts of electricity and water, but experts say it can also play a powerful role in tackling climate change by making energy use more efficient and reducing pollution.
Data centers powering AI used about 1.5% of global electricity in 2024, and that figure could more than double by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency. Still, researchers believe that using AI to optimize energy systems, industry, and transport could offset some of its environmental costs.
Smarter buildings
AI systems can automatically adjust lighting, temperature, and ventilation in buildings, reducing energy use by 10–30%. They can also predict when heating and cooling systems need maintenance before breakdowns occur, saving both energy and money. “That’s low-hanging fruit,” said Zoltan Nagy, an engineering professor at Eindhoven University of Technology.
Efficient EV charging
AI can schedule electric vehicle charging at times when demand and energy prices are lowest — often overnight — reducing stress on power grids. In California, a pilot project saved consumers money and supported renewable energy use.
Cutting methane emissions
Boston-based Geminus AI uses deep learning to help oil and gas companies reduce methane flaring and venting — major sources of greenhouse gases. Its technology analyzes complex networks of wells and pipelines, making real-time adjustments that engineers once needed over a day to calculate. CEO Greg Fallon says this could “massively reduce emissions” across the industry.
Discovering geothermal energy
Salt Lake City startup Zanskar uses AI to locate underground heat sources for geothermal energy — a clean alternative to fossil fuels. Its models helped discover untapped geothermal reservoirs in New Mexico and Nevada, showing how AI can identify overlooked renewable energy sites.
Reducing traffic pollution
Google’s Project Green Light uses AI and traffic data to improve traffic light timing and cut stop-and-go driving. Operating in 20 cities worldwide, including Boston, it has reduced congestion by up to 30% and emissions by 10%, according to Google.
Despite concerns about AI’s growing energy footprint, experts like Columbia University’s Alexis Abramson remain hopeful. “AI is becoming part of the solution,” she said. “Used wisely, it can help us make the world cleaner and more efficient.”
