Home Science and technology DeepSeek’s Impact on Japan’s Power Demand Remains Uncertain, METI Says

DeepSeek’s Impact on Japan’s Power Demand Remains Uncertain, METI Says

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Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) acknowledges that the expansion of data centers may contribute to higher electricity demand. However, it remains difficult to predict how technologies like DeepSeek will influence overall energy consumption. METI shared its views in an email, explaining the complexity of forecasting power demand due to AI-driven innovations.

In December, Japan’s government released a draft of its basic energy plan, projecting a 10-20% rise in electricity generation by 2040. This forecast highlights the role of AI in driving energy consumption. Despite this, the recent entry of Chinese startup AI DeepSeek complicates predictions. Unlike competitors, DeepSeek claims to use significantly less power, sparking debates on whether AI’s overall energy demand will decrease or continue to rise as the technology becomes more widespread.

Analysts are divided on the issue, with some suggesting that the affordability of DeepSeek’s technology could reduce electricity demand, while others fear that growing AI usage will still lead to higher energy consumption. METI emphasized that various factors, including cost reduction and performance improvements, will impact future energy needs. The ministry stressed that these elements make it challenging to forecast the precise effect on power demand.

Japan’s energy challenges are not limited to AI’s power consumption. Ensuring an adequate supply of decarbonized energy sources will be critical to supporting the country’s economic growth and industrial competitiveness. METI emphasized that securing sustainable energy solutions is crucial for meeting future electricity demand.

The government’s draft energy plan also emphasizes the development of energy-efficient technologies to address the rising demand for electricity. As AI technologies continue to advance, finding a balance between innovation and sustainability will be key to Japan’s energy future.

While the influence of DeepSeek on Japan’s energy consumption is still uncertain, METI’s comments underscore the complexities involved in predicting AI’s long-term impact on power demand. The development of energy-saving technologies and the availability of decarbonized power will be essential in shaping the future of energy use in Japan.

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