Viewpoint: Jacksonville poised for data center boom as AI drives efficiency innovations (Courtesy of the Jacksonville Busness Journal) — Author: Alyson Freeman (pictured above), who leads the sustainability and ESG innovation efforts for Dell Technologies – with a focus on AI and data center energy use.
Data centers are the invisible engines powering our digital and now AI-driven – world, from healthcare to seamless online banking. AI has the potential to tackle global challenges, like climate change and improving access to education. The increased demand for more data centers to power the AI era is expected to make energy demand soar.
The U.S. Department of Energy reports that data centers consumed about 4.4% of total U.S. electricity in 2023, with data centers expected to consume approximately 6.7% to 12% of total U.S. electricity within 3 years. It’s clear that data centers operators must strive for greater efficiency. There are practical steps, innovations, and collaborations that can help data centers serve both business and societal progress.
With its reliable infrastructure, geographic advantages, and growing tech scene, Jacksonville is ripe for data center investment. The region’s connectivity to major fiber optic networks and proximity to undersea cables makes it an attractive location for colocation and cloud services. Add to that competitive energy rates, the presence of universities, and no state income tax, and it is clear why data center operators are exploring North Florida as a potential opportunity.
Rethinking Energy Use: Where AI Changes the Game
Data centers are using more energy as more people rely on AI and cloud platforms, which increase the amount of data being processed. Traditionally, companies have made small improvements to cut energy use, like upgrading hardware. But now, artificial intelligence is offering a bigger solution.
Most of the energy used in data centers is spent on keeping the equipment cool, like running giant air conditioners to prevent servers from overheating. AI could help by managing cooling systems, balancing server workloads, and predicting energy demand in real time. These technologies make data centers more efficient, which both saves money and lowers emissions.
Design, Innovation, and the Path to More Efficient Operations
AI isn’t the only way to save energy. Smart building designs and upgrades can make a big difference too. Features like energy-saving designs, smaller servers, and cooling systems that use liquid instead of fans help reduce electricity use. Updating older systems with sensors and automation also makes it easier for existing buildings to become more energy-efficient, not just brand-new ones. Another key step is using diverse and renewable sources of energy. That has the biggest effect on the environmental impact of a data center.
Collaboration: The Engine of Progress
Progress doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Making meaningful advances in data center efficiency depends on strong partnerships across public agencies, private enterprise, and education. Collaboration enables bold pilot projects, new policy incentives, streamlined permitting processes and the development of teams skilled in both advanced energy systems and AI.
Local universities and workforce programs can play a crucial role in training engineers and technicians who will shape the next wave of efficient operations. Sharing data, best practices, and technologies builds a culture of improvement that benefits the entire community. Learning from proven models in other cities—while adapting strategies to our own regional strengths—reduces risk and accelerates results.
Making AI Efficiency the Standard
AI efficiency in data centers is no longer just an aspiration; it’s a necessity for progress. The good news is that the tools and ideas are already here—AI, smart architecture, renewable energy and collaboration. By embracing AI and leading with optimism and practical action, we can balance the demands of a digital world with responsible stewardship. The more efficiently we power these engines of progress, the more we empower our people, our businesses, and our future.
Photo courtesy of Dell Technologies