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This study critically evaluates whether the current and projected generation of renewable energy can meet the escalating global demand for electricity from digital data growth. Our modelling forecasts reveal a concerning trend: despite the expansion in renewable energy capacities, they are likely insufficient to satisfy the burgeoning electricity needs of the digital data sector. More alarmingly, there is a real risk that the demand for digital data could soon exceed feasible electricity production capabilities. This paper underscores the urgent necessity for a data-centric sustainability approach across all supply chains, sectors, industries, and nations. Such measures are crucial to increase efficiency, cut energy usage, and transition towards a decarbonized digital ecosystem, thereby supporting the global pursuit of a sustainable, net-zero future. This research highlights a critical junction in energy policy and digital infrastructure planning, urging immediate action to reconcile digital advancement with ecological sustainability. • Assess whether renewable energy can meet the escalating energy demand by digital data. • Our forecasting model unveils a potential data doomsday scenario. • Despite the expansion in renewable energy, it is insufficient to satisfy the burgeoning needs of digital data. • Demand for digital data could soon exceed feasible electricity production capabilities. • Urgent need for a data-centric sustainability approach across all supply chains, sectors, industries, and nations.
Castro et al. (Fri,) studied this question.
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