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Technology

UN Chief Says AI Firms Should Disclose The Energy Powering Their Systems

The UN secretary-general has urged artificial intelligence companies to share information about the power used to run their models, linking AI's rapid growth to energy demand and data-centre transparency.

Rajan Mehta

Writer ·

3 min read
Rows of servers inside a large data centre
Rows of servers inside a large data centre · Illustrative section image

The UN secretary-general has called on artificial intelligence companies to share information about the energy used to power their systems, the Associated Press reported.

The comments connect the rapid expansion of AI with rising energy demand, greater transparency and the environmental footprint of the data centres that underpin the technology.

Background

The growth of large AI models has driven a surge in data-centre construction and electricity use, prompting scrutiny over how much power the sector consumes and where that energy comes from.

Campaigners and policymakers have increasingly pushed for companies to disclose consumption figures, arguing that without transparency it is difficult to assess the true climate cost of the AI boom.

What happens next

The intervention adds momentum to calls for clearer reporting standards, though whether major AI firms will voluntarily publish detailed energy data remains an open question.

Referenced coverage: Our reporting and analysis draws on coverage first reported by Associated Press. The NE Times publishes original reporting and independent analysis written by our editorial team. We credit and link the outlets whose primary reporting informed this article.

The NE Times is an independent news and analysis publisher. Our articles combine factual reporting with clearly-written, impartial analysis. Content is for general information and does not constitute professional advice. Disclaimer.

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