算力的尽头是电力：墨脱水电站，决定AI竞赛胜负的“电力底牌”

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that electricity is becoming a critical factor in the competition for artificial intelligence (AI) development, overshadowing traditional elements like algorithms and chips [1][5] - The demand for electricity in AI applications is expected to surge dramatically, with projections indicating that global data center electricity consumption will double from 415 TWh in 2024 to 945 TWh by 2030 [2] - The construction of the Mêdog Hydropower Station in China is highlighted as a strategic initiative to secure a stable and abundant energy supply for AI computing power, positioning China favorably in the global AI landscape [6][10] Energy Crisis in AI - The article discusses an ongoing AI electricity crisis, where the energy consumption for training AI models, such as GPT-4, is extraordinarily high, with a single training session consuming over 50 million kWh [1] - Major tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are facing challenges in securing sufficient electricity for their data centers, as existing power grids reach their limits [3] Mêdog Hydropower Station - The Mêdog Hydropower Station is projected to have an installed capacity of 60 million kW and an annual generation of nearly 300 billion kWh, which is equivalent to the combined output of three Three Gorges Dams [8] - This hydropower station is expected to provide a stable and low-cost energy source, significantly reducing operational costs for AI computing in China compared to competitors in Silicon Valley [10] Strategic Importance - The Mêdog project is seen as a crucial element in China's long-term strategy for AI dominance, aligning with national initiatives like "East Data, West Computing" and carbon neutrality [11][12] - The unique geographical features of the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet provide an unparalleled opportunity for hydropower generation, making this project feasible only in China [12][13] Conclusion - The Mêdog Hydropower Station represents not just an engineering feat but also a manifestation of China's strategic vision for the future of AI and energy [14] - The article concludes that the ability to harness clean and abundant electricity will define the success of nations in the AI era, positioning China as a formidable player in this new landscape [15]