Africa‘s efforts to achieve green energy goals dey face new challenges due to the high energy costs associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. As AI adoption increases across the continent, the energy consumption required to power these systems is becoming a significant concern.
Experts say that while AI can drive industrial transformation and boost productivity, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and telecommunications, the energy demands of AI infrastructure are substantial. For instance, training large AI models requires massive computational power, which in turn consumes a lot of energy, often generated from non-renewable sources.
This issue is particularly pertinent in Africa, where many countries are already struggling with energy shortages and high costs. The high energy consumption of AI systems could divert resources away from other critical areas such as education, health, and infrastructure, exacerbating existing developmental challenges.
Stakeholders, including governments, industry leaders, and academia, are calling for a balanced approach that ensures AI innovation is aligned with sustainable energy practices. This includes investing in renewable energy sources to power AI infrastructure and developing more energy-efficient AI models. Regulatory frameworks that mandate sustainable practices in AI development are also being proposed to mitigate the environmental impact.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and other global bodies are emphasizing the need for early warnings and sustainable practices to protect people and livelihoods from hazardous weather and climate events. Integrating AI with these initiatives while ensuring they are energy-efficient is crucial for Africa’s sustainable development.
In summary, while AI holds great promise for Africa’s economic and social development, addressing the energy costs associated with AI is essential to ensure that these technologies support, rather than hinder, the continent’s green goals.
