USING TREATED DRINKING WATER TO COOL A DATA CENTER SHOULDN'T BE MERELY DISCOURAGED, IT SHOULD BE OUTRIGHT ILLEGAL.

Braking :USING TREATED DRINKING WATER TO COOL A DATA CENTER SHOULDN'T BE MERELY DISCOURAGED, IT SHOULD BE OUTRIGHT ILLEGAL.

Some of the world’s largest data centers use substantial amounts of water to keep their computing equipment cool, and in some locations that water can come from public water systems.

Water demand varies widely depending on the facility’s cooling technology, climate and source of water. The U.S. Department of Energy says data centers can require millions of gallons of water per day, while newer cooling systems can reduce water requirements by more than 90 percent. (The Department of Energy’s)

Some facilities use potable water supplied by local utilities, while others use reclaimed wastewater, recycled industrial water, surface water or other non-potable sources. In Quincy, Washington, for example, Microsoft and the city developed a reuse system that treats industrial wastewater and returns it to data centers for cooling. The system uses water from an irrigation canal rather than drinking-water supplies for its makeup water. (US EPA)

The issue is becoming more important as artificial intelligence and cloud computing drive rapid growth in data-center construction. Water utilities are having to plan for new industrial customers whose demands can be substantial, while some

 proposed facilities are being located in areas already facing water shortages. The American Water Works Association has identified increased demand, infrastructure requirements and the availability of alternative water sources as major issues for utilities planning for data-center growth. (American Water Works Association)

The impact can be particularly significant at the local level. A 2026 analysis of California’s data centers found that many facilities are located in or near

 communities facing water scarcity, while information about their cooling systems and water sources is often not publicly available. Researchers said this lack of transparency makes it difficult for communities and water providers to assess potential impacts. (Next 10)

Water availability can also intersect with Indigenous rights and interests. Federal researchers have emphasized the importance of considering local and Tribal water rights, governance structures and future water availability when evaluating potential data-center sites. Indigenous organizations and advocates have separately raised concerns about the effects of large facilities on water resources, treaty rights and culturally important ecosystems. (USGS Publications)

https://dailynewsworlde.blogspot.com/?m=1