France's ARCEP to collect environmental data from generative AI providers

The French telecommunications regulator ARCEP announced it will extend its annual environmental survey to include providers of generative AI services. The consultation on the draft decision is open, with data collection slated for 2027 and results to be published in 2028. The regulator seeks consistent metrics on electricity use, greenhouse‑gas emissions and water consumption from AI service operators and data‑centre owners, without imposing caps or penalties.

Recent figures show a 12 % rise in electricity consumption and a 23 % jump in emissions by data‑centre operators in one year. Use of generative AI among French users grew from 20 % to 48 % between 2023 and 2025, especially among 18‑24‑year‑olds. The French Environment and Energy Management Agency (Ademe) warns that the surge in generative AI and autonomous agents could double global data‑centre electricity demand by 2030, matching Japan’s total consumption. The agency stresses that while data centres could become part of the solution if relocated to regions with greener electricity mixes, the overall environmental impact remains significant.