From data center spas to servers in space: How the energy crunch is reshaping cloud computing (www.cnbc.com)

As the demand for artificial intelligence continues to surge, the pressure on energy supplies for data centers is escalating. Lenovo's Simone Larsson warns of a potential "tipping point" where current data center designs will no longer suffice. This energy crunch has catalyzed a significant shift within the tech community, prompting developers to explore innovative and sustainable solutions. Traditional data centers are under scrutiny for their inefficiencies in powering AI workloads while failing to meet sustainability goals. Lenovo's recent study highlights that only 46% of IT decision-makers believe their current designs support environmental targets, indicating a pressing need for change. In response, Lenovo is collaborating with architects and engineers to revolutionize data center architecture, considering concepts such as underground facilities and "data villages" that utilize excess heat for community amenities. Other companies are also investigating orbital data centers, with startups like Starcloud making strides in space-based technology. While the cost and technological challenges of launching data centers into orbit remain significant hurdles, the exploration of such futuristic designs indicates a growing recognition of the need for more sustainable and scalable data solutions. Overall, these developments signify a transformative era for cloud computing, prioritizing environmental compatibility alongside rapid advancements in AI technology.