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Artificial intelligence, from generative video models to ubiquitous chatbots, is facing increased scrutiny over its massive energy footprint. A new study reveals that even brief, low-resolution AI-generated videos require surprisingly large amounts of power, dwarfing the energy consumed by simpler text-based interactions. While individual AI interactions might seem inconsequential, the collective energy expenditure of AI development and large-scale deployments is raising environmental concerns. The report highlights a critical lack of transparency from major AI corporations regarding their energy consumption data. Furthermore, AI’s reliance on vast data centers places a growing burden on essential resources like water and exacerbates dependence on fossil fuels for power generation. Experts advocate for systemic shifts and greater corporate accountability to mitigate AI’s environmental impact, shifting the focus away from solely individual user habits. The findings were originally published in The Algorithm, a leading AI industry newsletter.