"The Internet: One Big Power Suck"

Steve Hargreaves, writing in CNNMoney, notes that the internet now uses more energy than the automobile industry uses to make cars. He argues that the internet has been a “godsend” for the power companies, who were facing decreased demand from industrial clients, in part due to the recession and in part due to increased operating efficiencies and energy conservation measures. Server farms are becoming more efficient, yet their draw on the nation’s power grid has been increasing by 10%/year.  

From CNNMoney, Steve Hargreaves, May 9, 2011. Accessed 1/25/2012.