Cumbrian Tech Firm Harnesses Wind and Solar Power for AI’s Growing Energy Demands
A Cumbrian technology firm, SMS Speedway, has taken an innovative approach to meet the rising energy demands of artificial intelligence (AI) by turning to renewable energy sources. Located in Roweltown, near Carlisle, the company has installed two 15-kilowatt wind turbines and is expanding its solar capacity and battery storage systems. By utilizing these clean energy sources, SMS Speedway aims to accommodate up to 90% of its energy needs, reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to the fight against global warming.
Bradley Kieser, the Chief Executive of SMS Speedway, explained, We are using the natural resources of Cumbria – wind and solar – to generate the electricity for our servers. As AI becomes ever more capable of tackling increasingly complex tasks, the energy requirements increase exponentially. We strive to be a green business, so this is our way of ensuring that we’re not contributing to global warming through our activities.
SMS Speedway specializes in developing AI-based applications for sectors such as e-commerce, property, and finance. While AI can enhance energy use efficiency in certain areas, it is important to acknowledge the significant surge in energy consumption due to AI advancements. A recent study conducted by Alex De Vries from VU Amsterdam School of Business and Economics estimates that by 2027, the global energy consumption of AI could reach a staggering 85-134 terawatt hours of electricity, equivalent to the annual power consumption of a country the size of the Netherlands.
To minimize external electricity purchases, SMS Speedway has invested in battery storage, allowing them to store generated electricity for continuous supply even when there is no wind or sunshine. Additionally, the company leverages AI to optimize energy efficiency. By using AI algorithms, non-time-sensitive, energy-demanding tasks are scheduled for execution when renewable power supply is abundant.
Security and data privacy are essential concerns for SMS Speedway. With servers located on-site, the company ensures that customer data remains secure. Mr. Kieser stated, Our AI systems are not connected to the internet, so there is no data leakage. We base our AI solutions on open-source AI, ensuring they are private, secure, and GDPR compliant.
SMS Speedway sources electricity from Octopus Energy, a renewable energy specialist, when external power is needed. However, their increasing investment in wind turbines, solar panels, and battery storage systems will contribute to a more self-sufficient operation.
The integration of renewable energy sources and AI technology at SMS Speedway exemplifies a forward-thinking approach toward sustainability within the tech industry. By harnessing the power of wind and solar, the company is actively reducing its environmental impact and setting an example for others in the field. With the rapid growth of AI and its accompanying energy demands, innovative solutions like these are vital to ensure a greener future.
