As global leaders gather for COP30 in Brazil, a new KPMG International survey finds overwhelming support for artificial intelligence (AI) as a driver — not a deterrent — of climate action. The study, AI’s Dual Promise: Enabling Positive Climate Outcomes and Powering the Energy Transition, surveyed over 1,200 senior executives across 20 countries and shows that 97% believe AI is a net positive for achieving net-zero targets.
While concerns about AI’s rising energy footprint persist, 96% of respondents said they are confident that clean energy can meet AI’s future power demand, and 87% consider AI central to their sustainability and decarbonisation strategies.
AI as an Accelerator, Not an Obstacle
The report paints a picture of growing alignment between technological advancement and environmental responsibility. Mike Hayes, Global Head of Renewable Energy at KPMG International, said:
“AI isn’t just supporting the energy transition — it’s accelerating it. The challenge isn’t to slow AI down but to steer it wisely.”
The findings suggest that most corporate leaders now view AI as a tool to optimise clean energy systems, improve forecasting, and enhance infrastructure efficiency — from smart grids to emission-tracking analytics.
However, only 30% of executives said improving AI’s own energy efficiency was a short-term priority, highlighting an execution gap between enthusiasm and immediate investment.
Infrastructure and Policy Lag Behind Ambition
Despite strong optimism, KPMG notes that barriers in infrastructure, regulation, and financing are slowing implementation. One-third of respondents identified grid capacity limitations as a key risk, while 75% said policy frameworks have failed to keep pace with AI’s climate potential.
The report warns that, without faster permitting and funding, governments and utilities could meet only half of new AI-driven energy demand by 2030. High capital costs and policy uncertainty continue to hinder expansion of renewable capacity to support large-scale AI operations, especially in emerging economies.
The Road to a Smarter, Greener Future
Anish De, Global Head of Energy, Natural Resources and Chemicals at KPMG International, said the balance between AI’s energy consumption and its environmental contribution will define the next decade of progress.
“AI’s energy demand is undeniable, but it’s also reshaping how we plan and power sustainable infrastructure. The key is whether our grids can evolve fast enough to keep up.”
Anna Scally, Head of Technology, Media and Telecommunications at KPMG EMA, added that AI’s role in climate strategy is shifting from theoretical to operational. “AI’s energy demands are significant, but its potential to accelerate decarbonisation is greater,” she said. “The focus now must be on aligning innovation, policy, and investment at the same pace.”
As COP30 discussions unfold, the message from business leaders is clear: AI isn’t the climate problem — it’s part of the solution.
