This student data set asks learners to analyze how global and U.S. data center electricity use is changing over time and why AI is accelerating that growth.
AI, Data Centers, and Energy
Summary
This lesson brings together a data set and reading activity exploring how AI is driving growth in data center electricity use, alongside the broader energy, water, land, air, noise, and economic impacts of these facilities. Students analyze IEA and Pew graphs on server growth and electricity demand, then read through sections on cooling, power sourcing, land use, and emissions to connect environmental effects back to specific causes. Includes a complete answer key for grading or in-class review. Built for high school environmental science or Earth science classrooms.
Activities
Reading
This student info sheet explains what a data center is and why data centers matter in modern life.
Answer Key
This answer key provides support for both the Reading and Data Set activities.
Downloadables