Using diesel backup generators for AI data centers could cause hundreds of premature deaths annually, experts warn

Summary

The article warns that using existing diesel backup generators to power AI data centers would have severe health and environmental consequences. As U.S. electricity demand rises due to AI infrastructure, some officials like Energy Secretary Chris Wright have proposed using the 35 GW of existing backup generators as regular power sources. However, experts argue this would release significant pollution, leading to hundreds of premature deaths annually from increased particulate matter and other emissions. The piece examines the tension between meeting AI's growing energy needs and protecting public health, questioning whether such shortcuts are worth the human cost.