"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

E126: Data Center Economics and AI Energy Requirements w/ Patrick McKenzie and Azeem Azhar

40 snips
Mar 15, 2025
Guest
Azeem Azhar
Join Azeem Azhar, founder of the Exponential View newsletter, as he dives deep into the economics of data centers and their evolving energy demands. He discusses the historical context of infrastructure and how AI's exponential needs compare to past advancements. Azeem explores innovative solutions like small modular nuclear reactors and the potential of geothermal energy to meet future challenges. The conversation also touches on energy strategies in California and Texas, revealing how regional approaches differ in harnessing renewable resources.
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ANECDOTE

Railway Investment

  • During the railway buildout in 19th-century Britain, 6-7% of GDP went to rail investment.
  • This illustrates the immense capital required for large-scale infrastructure projects.
INSIGHT

Bubbles and Infrastructure

  • Infrastructure overinvestment often creates bubbles, but these bubbles can be positive.
  • They act as a coordinating force, enabling disparate entities to contribute to large-scale projects.
ANECDOTE

Telecoms Bubble

  • The telecoms bubble saw $600 billion invested in infrastructure, with US firms taking on $350-$370 billion in debt.
  • This highlights the scale of investment, even in a market growing at 7% per annum.
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