AI Centers Learn Power-Saving Tricks from Bitcoin Miners
AI data centers are adopting a power-saving strategy reminiscent of Bitcoin miners' tactics. By controlling their energy consumption, AI companies can reduce their reliance on the grid during peak hours.
According to an experiment in Texas, a single Nvidia B200 chip can reduce its power draw by 75% within half a second when instructed to do so. This technology has the potential to mitigate the strain on power plants and transmission lines.
The demand for data center electricity is growing rapidly. In 2030, it's estimated that AI data centers could consume up to 15.3% of US electricity. The International Energy Agency forecasts a significant increase in power consumption, with data centers accounting for about half of the growth by the end of the decade.
The Texas grid is struggling to meet this demand, with ERCOT (the Electric Reliability Council of Texas) reviewing requests to connect over 474 gigawatts of new electricity use. The state's governor has ordered an audit of these projects due to concerns about their feasibility.