BUSINESS

Energy Giants Target Tech: Natural Gas for AI Data Centers

Gulf Coast, USASat Dec 14 2024
This: massive tech companies using natural gas from familiar energy giants to power their cutting-edge AI data centers. Exxon Mobil and Chevron, traditionally known for oil, are now aiming to supply the tech world with energy. These companies believe that natural gas will be the go-to fuel for tech giants due to their enormous energy requirements. Exxon Mobil announced plans to build a natural gas plant specifically to power a data center. The company promises that 90% of the plant's emissions will be captured and stored using advanced technology. This project is designed to be independent of the electric grid, allowing for quicker installation compared to traditional power projects. Though Exxon hasn't revealed any partners or timelines yet, this move could mean big business for carbon capture. Chevron is also keen on powering data centers. They have a lot going for them: they're a major natural gas producer, they own power generation equipment, and they have large areas of land that could host data centers. This shift into the tech energy market is a smart move for these energy giants, as they look to diversify their operations. Both companies understand that the tech industry's insatiable need for energy presents a significant opportunity. By 2050, decarbonizing AI data centers could represent a substantial part of their carbon capture market. This isn't just about earning profits; it's about reducing the environmental impact of the tech boom.

questions

    What are the potential risks and benefits of using natural gas to power AI data centers?
    Are these data centers a front for some other clandestine operation by Exxon Mobil and Chevron?
    How will the independence from the electric grid affect local energy infrastructure and communities?

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