19 Sep 2024

Recap | How thirsty is AI? Demystifying data centre water risk and exploring design solutions

On 22 August, techUK hosted a webinar that explored several critical questions around the sustainability of data centres in the age of AI. Our speakers from Kao Data, ERM, Cadence Design Systems and Marchini Curran Associates delved into the complexities of AI's impact on water consumption in data centres, examining how cooling methods, climate, and site innovations influence water usage. They also discussed the evolving design requirements for data centres, the potential for heat and water reuse, and how liquid cooling systems could reshape sustainability strategies in the sector​.

Key takeaways

  • Water consumption in data centres is largely influenced by a combination of factors, including the location's climate and the type of cooling systems in use.
  • AI is more efficient than traditional computing, but the rising demand is what drives higher energy and water usage.
  • AI is driving innovation in cooling systems like direct-to-chip or immersion cooling which may reduce the need for water and enable heat export.
  • AI can be a powerful tool for detecting and fixing water leaks, contributing significantly to reducing water loss globally.
  • There is often a trade-off between improving water efficiency and power efficiency.
  • Various design solutions, such as rainwater harvesting, can significantly reduce a data centre’s freshwater demand.
  • With increasing regulation, there will be more emphasis on water usage disclosure. Data centres will need to monitor and report their water usage more transparently, driving further improvements in water management​.

A recording from the session can be found below:

 

For more information please contact: 

Weronika Dorociak

Weronika Dorociak

Programme Manager, Sustainability , techUK

Luisa C. Cardani

Luisa C. Cardani

Head of Data Centres Programme, techUK


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Craig Melson

Craig Melson

Associate Director for Climate, Environment and Sustainability, techUK

Weronika Dorociak

Weronika Dorociak

Programme Manager, Sustainability , techUK

Josh Turpin

Josh Turpin

Programme Manager, Telecoms and Net Zero, techUK

Lucas Banach

Lucas Banach

Programme Assistant, Data Centres, Climate, Environment and Sustainability, Market Access, techUK

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