# Researchers say software tweaks could ease AI data‑center power crunch

> By 2030 AI may need as much electricity as Japan today, but better software could cut that demand.

Oossa · 2026-10-08 · https://oossa.com/en/researchers-say-software-tweaks-could-ease-ai-data-center-power-crunch

A study notes that AI workloads could drive data‑center electricity use up to 945 TWh by 2030 – roughly Japan’s current consumption. The researchers argue that instead of only building more efficient GPUs, operators should look at the software running on servers. Since servers use about 60 % of a data‑center’s power, cutting unnecessary compute could save a lot of energy. They point out that average power usage effectiveness has barely moved in six years, suggesting hardware gains alone aren’t enough.

## The facts

- 945 TWh of electricity projected for AI data‑centers by 2030
- Servers account for ~60 % of a modern data‑center’s power use

## Why it matters

If hyperscale operators improve software efficiency, they could lower electricity bills and reduce strain on already tight power grids.

## Sources & references

1. [Software could be the easiest fix for hyperscalers' AI power squeeze, researchers say](https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/data-centers/software-could-be-the-easiest-fix-for-hyperscalers-ai-power-squeeze-researchers-say-data-center-demand-is-expected-to-rival-japans-electricity-usage-by-2030) – Tom's Hardware, 2026-10-08

Last updated: 2026-10-08