The idea that personal LLM use is environmentally irresponsible shows up *a lot* in many of the online spaces I frequent. I've [touched on my doubts around this](https://simonwillison.net/2024/Dec/31/llms-in-2024/#the-environmental-impact-got-better) in the …
  • cx40@programming.devEnglish
    3·
    24 days ago
    • Specific heat capacity of water: 4.184J/(gC)
    • Average shower temperature: 37C
    • Cold tap water temperature: T
    • Shower head output: 2gallon/min = 7.57L/60s = 126ml/s = 126g/s

    1s * (126g/s) * (4.184J/(gC)) * (37C - T) = 524J/C * (37C - T)

    120Wh = 432000J

    T = -787C

    So I guess the math checks out if your city’s water supply temperature is way below absolute zero.

    Scratch that, let’s assume the water actually flows, so T=0C. What water throughout do we need to achieve this level of power consumption?

    1s * (X g/s) * (4.184J/(gC)) * (37C) = 432000J

    X = 2791g/s = 44gpm

    You would have to be showering with 17 showerheads simultaneously using showerheads that are rated at the highest legal flow rates in the US (2.5gpm).