Hoekstra: Europe must prepare for higher electricity demand because of AI

Brussels, 11 November (CTK correspondent) - The development of artificial intelligence (AI) and data centres brings potentially enormous benefits, but will also significantly disrupt the way society currently functions, Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra said. It will also increase the need for electricity in the European Union. Hoekstra made the comments in an interview with journalists from the European Newsroom (ENR), of which CTK is a member, and other Brussels-based journalists. He warned that data centres must not cause energy shortages for households.

"I am among those who believe we must fundamentally improve and change our approach to mitigating some of the truly existential risks that artificial intelligence will unfortunately bring," Hoekstra said.

AI potentially represents the most complex and dangerous undertaking humanity has embarked on in its entire existence, he said. But he does not think it is being approached in this way.

The Dutch member of the European Commission therefore praised French President Emmanuel Macron for clearly highlighting the need to mitigate the risks associated with the development of AI. Other politicians should follow his lead, Hoekstra said.