As the demand for AI continues to grow, data centers are using more water to cool their computing equipment. In Virginia, which has the largest concentration of data centers in the world, water usage increased by almost two-thirds between 2019 and 2023.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
This trend is unsustainable and is causing consternation among major data center operators like Microsoft and Google. These companies’ servers are using a significant amount of water in areas with water stress or scarcity. The demand for data water consumption water consumption is concerning with water usage in Virginia increasing by almost two-thirds in a four-year span (2019-2023). Additionally, data centers are unable to recycle water in a closed-loop system due to the need for humidity control.
TF Summary: What’s Next
The AI’s demand on data center water consumption is a growing concern that needs to be addressed. With the increasing reliance on AI, it will be important to find sustainable solutions to reduce the environmental impact of data centers on water resources. The development of water-efficient cooling systems and alternative methods for humidity control are potential areas for future focus and innovation.