ThinkEnergy Empowering power: how AI impacts energy systems
13 snips
Apr 28, 2025 Greg Lindsay, an urban tech expert and Senior Fellow at MIT, discusses how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing energy systems. He highlights AI's role in enhancing energy efficiency and managing increased consumption demands. The conversation also touches on the fascinating concept of digital twins for infrastructure management and the importance of cybersecurity in smart energy systems. Lindsay emphasizes the need for a shift in our relationship with energy, reflecting on the influence of science fiction on our perceptions of technology.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Two Faces of AI
- AI today includes statistical machine learning and powerful large language models that generate text and images.
- Large language models like GPT are very energy-demanding compared to previous AI methods.
AI Optimizes Home Energy Use
- Smart devices like thermostats use AI to optimize energy use, saving 10%-25% on bills.
- Community energy trading via blockchain may emerge, but cheaper bills drive adoption.
Efficiency Can Increase Consumption
- Efficiency gains from AI and energy tech may cause more overall energy consumption (Jevons paradox).
- Cheaper cleaner energy often leads to increased demand, not less.
