Google has recently discussed its increasing energy demands and the technological solutions it is exploring to address this challenge, especially in the context of growing artificial intelligence needs. The company, like many in the tech industry, is experiencing significant rises in electricity consumption within its data centers.
In 2020, Google set a goal to operate on carbon-free energy 24/7 by 2030. This objective entails purchasing sufficient renewable energy on the grids where it operates to meet its entire energy requirements while ensuring the energy generation aligns with its real-time usage. Despite the ambitious nature of this target, recent statements from company representatives indicate that achieving it is becoming increasingly difficult as AI usage expands.
Company official Tian noted that while Google continues to strive for this commitment, the challenges presented by growing energy demands make it a more formidable task. The total electricity consumption of Google has reportedly more than doubled from 2020 to 2024. In its latest Environmental Report, the company indicated that it has maintained its carbon-free energy percentage for data centers at approximately 66%, compared to 67% in 2020, amidst rising energy needs.
While not experiencing a decline in carbon-free energy supply is viewed as a positive outcome, it underscores the distance Google still must cover to meet its 2030 goal. To bridge this gap, the company has been actively pursuing various energy-related projects. Recent initiatives highlighted by Tian include collaboration on carbon capture and storage at a natural gas plant in Illinois and plans regarding the reopening of a decommissioned nuclear plant in Iowa.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/11/13/1127896/google-energy-goals/