OpenAI will not disclose GPT-5’s energy use. It could be higher than past models

Experts working to benchmark resource use of AI models say new version's enhanced capabilities come at a steep cost

In mid-2023, if a user asked OpenAI's ChatGPT for a recipe for artichoke pasta or instructions on how to make a ritual offering to the ancient Canaanite deity Moloch, its response might have taken - very roughly - 2 watt-hours, or about as much electricity as an incandescent bulb consumes in 2 minutes.

OpenAI released a model on Thursday that will underpin the popular chatbot - GPT-5. Ask that version of the AI for an artichoke recipe, and the same amount of pasta-related text could take several times - even 20 times - that amount of energy, experts say.