Comment Re:US also used ~21GW for data-centers in 2024... (Score 2) 55
No, the sensible solution is that every polluter pays for the cost of its pollution. Why make a special case for data centers while the coal plant next door continue to run with 0 intensive to reduce emissions?
Let say there are two possible sources of electricity, coal and solar. If coal is 1% cheaper but pollutes 100x, that's what "the market" will always choose. The pollution cost has to be internalized. Then, data centers and every other consumer will be able to make a rational decision on whether its worth it or not to expand.
The problem is so-called "conservatives" which always fight for pollution to be unlimited and free.