For thousands of years, tools and equipment have helped us increase the standard of living in various aspects of society. Whether it is plowing fields in an agricultural setting, crafting apparel, or building skyscrapers that will last decades, there’s no doubt that technology has made our lives more manageable and will continue making it easier.
The Global Energy Crisis and AI
As the years pass, more intricate computers and systems are being used by large burgeoning corporations and businesses in sifting through thousands of terabytes of information and data. With tasks that would normally take days to weeks if it was only done manually can now be done in just mere seconds with the help of search engines, artificial intelligence, and automated machinery.
But even though technology has made significant advancements in the last few decades, it hasn’t come to a point where it could address climate change and dwindling resources in most urban centers around the world. Even though there are renewable and natural forms of energy, such as solar energy and wind, it hasn’t necessarily solved much of the world’s energy crisis.
Much of the world’s energy crisis is attributed to the world’s growing population and demand for natural resources. As most of us know, the rising population and burgeoning industrial complexes will only demand even more from reserves. While these natural resources can be “replaced,” it will usually take thousands of years for this to happen.
Several large technological giants in different industries have been placing billions of dollars into research and development to develop advanced artificial intelligence that can be used in different industries. For instance, Tesla has been pooling billions of dollars in developing AI chips for electric cars that can easily discern traffic rules and regulations while being able to self-drive without the need of a driver.
If there are already advanced artificial intelligence types that are capable of locomotion, spatial awareness, and abiding by rules and regulations, then there’s bound to be artificial intelligence that can help with the global energy crisis. But how do these AI help in this case?
Learning Algorithms
It’s found out that server farms that process huge amounts of data in search engines are known for consuming 3% of the globe’s energy supply. If this is the case, then alternative measures are needed to reduce the level of consumption. AI with general-purpose learning algorithms installed into their programming is known for processing even more data without human supervision.
This type of learning is so advanced that humans cannot comprehend the data that it processes. Most experts would suggest that this type of AI will affect more than just data-processing industries. It’s also theorized that this will help in the fight against climate change in the near future.
Optimized Automated Residential Management
Even in a residential setting, artificial intelligence has made a breakthrough in automating various household tasks. Normally, homeowners will need to keep track of their air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems.
Relatively simple AI types, such as a home automation system, can help regulate HVAC systems towards the homeowner or the family’s preference. This system is also capable of informing the homeowner on a variety of different environmental factors as they happen in real-time. Not only will this help save energy bills, but this can also ensure that energy is saved and diverted to more pressing societal concerns.
Electric Cars
As compared to diesel or cars that run on gasoline, electric cars won’t have to rely on natural gas and resources for fuel. Instead, electric cars use renewable energy from charging stations and other alternative sources of energy.
Not only do electric cars use renewable energy, but they also use an advanced AI system that is capable of discerning its surroundings, providing a necessary and functional user interface for drivers. They also ensure the safety of the passenger while regulating fuel consumption.
It’s quite apparent that artificial intelligence has made a huge impact on how we live our lives. Technological development and research in the past few decades have made significant progress to address society’s needs. Technology will continue evolving to address even more pressing matters in different facets of human society. Whether it’s solving the energy crisis, climate change, or simply making our lives easier, there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that AI has been solving our problems.
Ultimately, there is still much that the future holds. There’s a lot that we do not know, and we’re still taking baby steps towards the golden age of technology.
