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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n