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What happened
In a groundbreaking report, Google has disclosed the energy consumption associated with its Gemini AI applications, revealing that the median prompt consumes 0.24 watt-hours of electricity. This amount is comparable to running a standard microwave for about one second. The report also includes estimates for water consumption and carbon emissions, marking a significant move towards transparency in the AI sector. Notably, the energy used by AI chips accounts for only 58% of the total demand, with supporting infrastructure contributing significantly. Google has also reported a dramatic reduction in energy use over time, with median energy consumption dropping 33 times from May 2024 to May 2025. The report aims to inform users about the environmental impact of their AI interactions, emphasizing that the energy and water usage are minimal compared to everyday activities.
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Key insights
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1
Energy Consumption Transparency
Google's report provides unprecedented insights into AI energy usage.
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Supporting Infrastructure Impact
Infrastructure accounts for a significant portion of total energy demand.
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3
Reduction in Energy Use
Median energy consumption has dramatically decreased over the past year.
Takeaways
Google's report represents a significant advancement in understanding the energy demands of AI technologies.