ABC News Daily

Why we’re using more electricity than ever before

8 snips
Jul 23, 2025
Dan Mercer, ABC energy reporter, dives deep into Australia's spiraling electricity demand, influenced by the electrification of homes and vehicles. He discusses the explosive growth of data centers, revealing their substantial energy needs and potential challenges ahead. Mercer highlights that actual electricity consumption trends might be rising faster than official forecasts, raising questions about our energy infrastructure's readiness. The conversation also touches on innovative cooling technologies aiming to mitigate data centers' environmental impact.
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INSIGHT

Electricity Demand Shift Since 2008

  • Since 2008, electricity demand in Australia initially decreased due to efficiency and less industrial use.
  • This break from the historical trend challenges old assumptions about power consumption growth.
INSIGHT

Hidden Electricity Demand Growth

  • Total electricity demand, including rooftop solar, has reached new highs in Australia.
  • This hidden demand exceeded previous records, showing actual consumption growth despite grid demand looking flat.
INSIGHT

Electrification Driving Demand Surge

  • Electrification of homes, transport, and industry will drive massive growth in electricity demand.
  • This shift replaces fossil fuels with clean electricity, posing a huge future power challenge.
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