Tech bosses press G20 to build data centres, but split on risk

Nvidia chief Jensen Huang and OpenAI's Sam Altman urged G20 ministers to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and construct data centres to support the technology, during a G20 meeting in North Carolina. Huang likened AI to essential infrastructure like electricity and water, stating that every nation must develop infrastructure to support their local economy. Nvidia, which manufactures graphics processing units crucial for AI model training, is the leading company in the generative AI boom.

However, the construction of data centres has become a point of contention in the United States, with some communities objecting to their impact on electricity rates. Huang dismissed concerns about AI displacing jobs, arguing that work would be redefined rather than eliminated. He warned that countries that fail to leverage AI would be left behind, urging caution against fear and uncertainty surrounding the technology.

In contrast, OpenAI's Altman was more cautious about building data centres, suggesting that some countries might rent facilities from other entities. He emphasized that AI adoption is non-negotiable, as the benefits for a nation are too significant to ignore. Altman expressed concern about AI concentration, stating that OpenAI does not wish to hold exclusive control over the technology or monopolize its value.

Ministers from the G20 countries, while acknowledging the potential opportunities, emphasized the necessity of balancing AI growth with public trust and addressing community concerns.