How Many Barrels of Oil Do AI Data Centers Consume on a Daily Basis?

The article argues that AI data centers are becoming a major new energy consumer, estimating current global power use at about 415 TWh in 2024, equivalent to roughly 670,000 barrels of oil per day, and potentially 1.5 million barrels per day by 2030. It contrasts this with Bitcoin mining, which it says now equates to about 500 barrels of oil equivalent per coin. The piece highlights Bitzero Holdings’ shift from Bitcoin mining into AI data center infrastructure, boosted by a lease deal with OneQode for 110 MW in Norway. It frames cheap, reliable electricity and grid access as the key competitive advantage in AI infrastructure, benefiting energy-rich regions such as Norway and Finland. The broader market takeaway is constructive for power infrastructure, data center operators, and energy producers that can secure low-cost clean power, while underscoring the scale of electricity demand created by the AI buildout.