AI and energy – a balancing act for sustainability

About this episode

This episode discusses the impact of artificial intelligence on energy demand and sustainability, featuring insights from European Patent Office experts.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work and innovate, but it is also driving a rapid increase in energy demand, raising urgent questions about sustainability and climate impact. Drawing on insights from European Patent Office experts and patenting trends across AI, semiconductors, renewable energy and smart grids, this episode highlights how inventors are tackling one of today’s defining challenges. Their innovation will determine whether AI becomes a climate liability or a driver of a more sustainable future. From more efficient AI models and specialised chips to smart grids, energy storage solutions and cooling systems, discover the technologies that could significantly reduce energy use while enabling AI to continue scaling, unlocking even greater potential. Host: Jeremy Philpott, EPO communication manager Guests : Yann Ménière, EPO Chief Economist Sandra Zeljkovic, EPO patent examiner in electrical power converters Nicolas Douarche, EPO patent examiner and team manager in core AI & quantum computing More information: EPO Technology Dashboard 2025 EPO's Observatory on Patents and Technology Sophie Wilson, European Inventor Award finalist 2013 Jaan Leis…

People in this episode

Host: Jeremy Philpott

Guests: Yann Ménière, Sandra Zeljkovic, Nicolas Douarche

Topics covered

• artificial intelligence
• energy demand
• sustainability
• climate impact
• innovation
• patenting trends

Keywords

• AI
• energy
• sustainability
• climate
• innovation
• patents
• smart grids
• renewable energy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: European Patent Office, EPO Technology Dashboard 2025, EPO's Observatory on Patents and Technology, Skeleton Technologies

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