Using artificial intelligence may seem free, but it isn’t: these figures reveal how much electricity and water the technology requires

Typing a question into ChatGPT, asking artificial intelligence to generate an image, or using an assistant like Gemini may seem virtually free in terms of physical resources. However, behind every interaction lies a network of data centers, processors, electrical systems, and cooling equipment that is driving up the demand for electricity and water associated with the growth of artificial intelligence.

Statista’s Environmental Impact of AI report compiles indicators on electricity consumption, water demand, and greenhouse gas emissions associated with the expansion of this technology. The study also shows how environmental impacts can vary considerably depending on the model used, its training process, the infrastructure, and the location of the data center.

The report indicates that the global artificial intelligence market reached an estimated value of $548.79 billion in 2025 and projects that it will grow by another $866.4 billion between 2025 and 2032.