In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as a transformative force shaping industries and societies worldwide.

However, as AI continues to advance, it brings with it an unprecedented surge in energy consumption. Indeed, AI already consumes as much energy as a small country!

Considering the escalating growth of AI, one estimate places a middle-ground scenario to have AI servers using similar amount of electricity to what countries like Argentina, the Netherlands and Sweden use in a year.

This phenomenon necessitates reevaluating our energy infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of increasing energy supply in meeting the escalating demand.

The growth of AI-driven technologies translates into an insatiable hunger for electricity. As businesses and consumers alike integrate AI into their daily operations and lifestyles, the strain on energy grids intensifies.

What does this mean for Canada’s energy sector?

A massive opportunity.

Canada, with its abundance of energy resources including hydroelectricity, nuclear energy and oil and gas is well-positioned to capitalize on this demand.

Hydroelectricity, which currently accounts for over 60% of Canada’s electricity generation, could play a pivotal role in meeting the energy needs of AI-driven technologies. Our vast network of rivers and reservoirs provides ample potential for further hydroelectric development.

Nuclear energy is another area where canada is a global leader. Nuclear energy is also being recognized as a viable solution to AI’s energy needs. Open AI CEO, Sam Altman, is backing a nuclear energy startup, which aims to power data centers companies like Open AI need.

Oil and gas can also play an important role in meeting increased AI energy demand. While other energy sources have plenty of potential to offer, it is important to also consider what energy sources are currently available to meet the demand of this new technology. Oil and gas remain indispensable as reliable energy sources capable of meeting the rapid increase in energy demand of AI operations.

Additionally, the relationship between the oil and gas sector and AI does not stop there.

Indeed, AI-driven innovations are revolutionizing oil and gas extraction processes, enhancing efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. When it comes to safety for instance, AI-driven remote sensing methods bolster security by identifying potential threats and facilitating proactive security protocols. These techniques facilitate remote control and management of devices, diminish the necessity for on-site personnel, and mitigate downtime.

Critics often frame the rise of AI as a threat to environmental conservation efforts, citing its energy-intensive nature.

Which reinforces the idea that Canadian energy sources are the most desirable when it comes to supplying energy for AI.

Canadian energy is known for its sustainability. With energy demand rising due to AI, shouldn’t companies choose Canadian energy? The answer seems clear.

AI needs reliable sources of energy.

And for that, one can and should look at Canada as a preferred supplier!