According to the European Central Bank, AI could significantly increase productivity in the eurozone over the next ten years. Depending on how intensively it is adopted, growth could range from at least 1.5% up to more than 4 percentage points. However, the substantial energy consumption of AI systems, combined with high electricity costs, could slow progress.

The ECB also notes that Europe is falling behind global leaders. This is due to relatively low AI patent activity and a strong dependence on foreign technologies. Limited investment and less developed capital markets further constrain the region’s ability to scale AI innovation.