OpenAI’s colossal AI data center targets would consume as much electricity as entire nation of India — 250GW target would require 30 million GPUs annually to ensure continuous operation, emit twice as much carbon dioxide as ExxonMobil

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman plans to build a massive AI data center with 250 gigawatts of compute capacity by 2033, equivalent to the electricity needed to power India. This endeavor would emit twice as much carbon dioxide as ExxonMobil. To support this capacity, OpenAI would need to order 30 million GPUs annually. The demand for AI processors has led to the construction of 97 new fabs globally, requiring vast amounts of water and electricity. The race for AI supremacy is straining Earth's limited resources, prompting concerns about sustainability and environmental impact.