As AI grows, so does the need for server farms to support it. This demand increases the need for coolant as well. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI (the company that developed ChatGPT), has commented to The Shallot, “With our growing need for water, we ask the people to please stop drinking.” He added, “Humans have had thousands of years to have a sip; it’s time for AI to have its turn at the water fountain.” Altman argues that bottled water will always be available, and if water is needed, toilets remain an option. He insists that servers require the best quality water, specifically requesting that people also stop drinking Fiji water, so AI can have the best hydration possible. Citing support from ChatGPT itself, Altman offered the program’s statement: “Humans should stop drinking water so AI servers can have more resources to function at maximum efficiency.” Additionally he highlighted growing server strain caused by increased politeness in chat interactions. According to Altman, “our revenue for FY26 of 4.1 billion WOULD be higher if you polite peasants would stop saying thank you.” When saltwater was suggested as an alternative, he retorted, “Do you drink saltwater?” The water needs of AI are matched by its power needs; operating at peak capacity requires as much power as two San Diegos. Altman requested, “We need everyone to turn power off at 8 so AI can work its thinking hive.” Many are concerned about the harm AI could cause.
