OpenAI CEO Sam Altman defended the energy and water used by modern AI systems in a blunt exchange at an industry event in India. He called viral claims about excessive water use for a single AI query false and urged people to look at the full picture. He also compares AI’s energy consumption with humans, stating ‘humans use energy too’.
Altman said some online figures about water use are ‘totally fake’ and ‘have no connection to reality.’ He pointed out that early data centers once used evaporative cooling, but that this practice is largely gone. He also asked critics to compare AI’s resource needs to the long-term resources required to educate and feed a human being.
What are the AI Energy Consumption Concerns?
Critics have claimed that AI systems like ChatGPT use significant energy. Claims about ChatGPT using gallons of water per query also gained attention on digital platforms. Notably, traditional data centers utilize large amounts of water to mitigate overheating.
However, technological advancements have offered reduced consumption, leading data centers to become 100% not reliant on water.
The claims that ChatGPT consumes more energy and water per query have created tension among users and environmental experts. The issue became a topic of discussion at the India AI Impact Summit 2026.
How Did Sam Altman React to the Claims?
Sam Altman’s response came during a public session at an AI summit and an Express Adda talk in New Delhi this week. Altman framed his comments as a push for fair debate. He said AI’s total energy footprint should be measured carefully, and that sensational social posts are making the discussion worse.
Altman also dismissed the notion of moving data centers into orbit as impractical right now. That point put him at odds with some rivals who offered more radical infrastructure ideas. The exchange added fuel to an already heated public debate about sustainability, jobs, and tech policy.
How Did the Internet React?
Social media users and commentators slammed Sam Altman for his remarks. Many accused Altman of downplaying real environmental concerns. Quickly, an online backlash took place and quoted sharp replies from people across platforms. The reaction shows how sensitive the topic has become, especially in regions facing water stress.
As a counterpart, Altman offered urged people to treat AI numbers carefully and compare them with human systems before coming to conclusions. Critics further stated that the industry still needs clearer audits and stronger commitments to sustainability.
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