A recent report from China Water Risk, a non-profit organization, has highlighted that the water demand for China’s data centers is expected to double by 2030, underscored by China’s expanding data centers and rapid artificial intelligence growth. The report reveals that these data hubs consume around 1.3 billion cubic meters (m3) of water annually, a figure slated to surge beyond 3 billion cubic meters by 2030.

Data centers rely on water for cooling systems and indirectly through electricity generation. An increase in artificial intelligence will step up data center computer and cooling; putting additional pressure on already stressed water resources, especially as the rise of AI and chatbots could see water use surge by a shocking 20x.

To put things into perspective, 1.3 billion m3 is 1.9x the water use for households & services in Tianjin, a city of 13.7 million people, but with data center growth plus China’s AI projections, this could explode to more than 500 million people.

The report emphasizes the need for sustainable practices and water management strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of the booming data center industry in China. As more businesses migrate their operations online and the demand for data storage and processing continues to surge, the pressure on water resources is expected to intensify.

To address this challenge, data center operators and policymakers must work together to implement efficient water usage practices, such as recycling and reusing water within the facilities. Additionally, exploring alternative cooling technologies that reduce water consumption can help alleviate the strain on the country’s water resources.

The increasing water demand for data centers not only raises concerns about the environmental impact but also highlights the importance of securing a reliable water supply for these critical infrastructure facilities. As China continues to invest in its digital economy, striking a balance between growth and sustainability will be crucial for the long-term success of the data center industry.

The report serves as a wake-up call for the industry and relevant stakeholders to adopt more sustainable practices and invest in innovative solutions to minimize water consumption in data centers. By doing so, they can contribute to a greener digital future for China while ensuring the reliable operation of the nation’s critical infrastructure.