The United Nations has called on major technology companies to ensure that all Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centers run entirely on renewable energy by 2030, warning that failure to act could derail global climate ambitions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres made the call during the launch of a new report titled “Seizing the Moment of Opportunity” in New York, developed in partnership with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
The report reveals the alarming energy demands of AI and cloud computing systems, noting that a single large data center now uses as much power as 100,000 homes, with future mega-centers projected to consume up to 20 times more. If current trends continue, these facilities could match Japan’s electricity consumption by 2030. Guterres also stressed the need for sustainable water use in data center cooling, urging tech firms to prioritize environmental considerations in their infrastructure designs.
While renewable energy adoption is accelerating globally, the UN warns of deep inequality. Developed nations like the U.S., Europe, and China lead the transition, while developing countries lag due to poor access to finance and technology. In 2024, Africa received only 1.5% of global renewable investment, despite hosting the majority of people without electricity. Guterres emphasized the need for an inclusive energy transition that benefits all regions, not just a privileged few.
The report acknowledges growing momentum in the clean energy sector, with over 90% of new projects now outcompeting fossil fuels in cost. In 2024, $2 trillion was invested in clean energy, far surpassing the $1.2 trillion for fossil fuels. Declaring the energy transition “a fact” and “irreversible,” Guterres warned, however, that unequal progress could jeopardize global climate targets. With COP30 approaching in Brazil this November, the focus is now on G20 countries, which contribute most to global emissions.