Event Details
Over the past eighteen months, the predominant discourse on technological transformation seems to revolve around the development and evolution of generative artificial intelligence (AI). Almost periodically, we find ourselves deeply impressed by the latest advancements in this field, both intellectually and philosophically. A probable reality is that generative AI might imminently revolutionize operational models in industries worth trillions or even tens of trillions of dollars, spanning from retail to aerospace. This transformation could encompass, from molecular information modeling in the biomedicine sector to environmental simulation in oil exploration, from autonomous driving in logistics to technological breakthroughs in aerospace.
However, an inevitable truth is that the advancement of generative AI relies on the computing power of global massive data centers. In other words, the demand for computing power in the ongoing AI competition is insatiable. Yet, the persistent need for computing power will consume substantial amounts of electricity, inevitably resulting in further emissions of greenhouse gases and exacerbating global warming. Thus, the triumvirate of computing power demand, energy consumption, and global environmental goals seems to constitute an insurmountable challenge—a different form of an "impossible triangle".
In the current geopolitical landscape, it appears daunting to persuade major economies to forsake the competition in the field of AI, particularly considering that national security has, to some extent, become the predominant theme. We certainly do not want to witness the pursuit of technology leading the world back to an era of high carbon emissions. As Sam Altman asserted at this year's Davos, if we cannot anticipate a slowdown in the development of artificial intelligence, our greatest hope may rest in breakthroughs in the field of clean energy, encompassing production capacity to energy storage technology.
For this event, we will invite leaders and experts in the energy sector to deliberate on the new opportunities and challenges brought by generative AI. Additionally, we will analyze how to harness new technologies to address energy consumption issues, achieve sustainable development in the industry, and attain carbon neutrality goals.
*Please note that the language for this event will be Chinese/bilingual. We will provide simultaneous interpretation on-site during the event. 此次活动的语言将是中文/双语。我们会在活动现场提供同声传译。
Please note that this event is limited to senior-level executives and per invitation only. If you are not an existing member of The Economist Intelligence Corporate Network, but would like to learn how you can attend our events, please contact us.
