A proposed AI data center in Trinidad and Tobago could consume as much electricity as 345,000 homes, according to tech analyst Shivam Teelucksingh. In a viral TikTok video, Teelucksingh broke down the differences between traditional data centers and AI data centers, warning of the massive power and water requirements.
Traditional data centers in Trinidad use 5-15 kilowatts per rack and consume power equivalent to about 1,400 homes. However, AI data centers demand 40-100+ kilowatts per rack, pushing the electrical grid. Teelucksingh estimated the proposed facility would use the equivalent of 207,000 to 345,000 homes.
Water consumption is also a concern. Traditional data centers use water equivalent to 216 homes, while the AI data center could use 32,500 to 54,000 homes’ worth. Teelucksingh noted that cooling methods like direct-to-chip liquid cooling require significant water, which evaporates and needs constant replenishment.
The government has promoted 5,000 temporary construction jobs, but Teelucksingh argued that only 50-100 permanent jobs would be created. He pointed to international examples: Ireland’s data centers used 23% of its power, Denmark paused grid connections, Chile faces drought, and New York banned new AI data centers.
Teelucksingh called for more sustainable alternatives and greater job creation. The video has sparked debate online, with many questioning the project’s environmental and economic impact.
Article and image source: tiktok.com
