The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the relationship between digitalization and energy. Growth in data centers, cloud computing, and processing-intensive applications is increasing electricity demand and creating new requirements for power, flexibility, and grid responsiveness. Globally, electricity consumption by data centers could double by 2030, while consumption by AI-focused facilities could triple.
This trend creates challenges for power system operation and planning. Concentrated loads and their rapid fluctuations require new generation capacity, grid reinforcement, battery storage, and more flexible and intelligent integration.
Latin America and the Caribbean has abundant renewable resources and the potential to attract investment in digital infrastructure, but it faces gaps in grids, regulation, specialized talent, connectivity, and sustainability. According to OLACDE, AI could account for nearly 5% of regional electricity consumption by 2035, equivalent to more than 120 TWh. The panel will examine how the expansion of AI is transforming energy demand and what policies, investments, regulatory frameworks, and business models can harness this opportunity without compromising security, resilience, affordability, or sustainability. It will also address issues such as water consumption, efficiency, and territorial planning.
