AI data centers becoming source of tension as local water supplies evaporate in heat

Europe’s latest heat wave is increasing drought risks and straining power systems, while the rapid expansion of AI data centers is adding pressure on water and electricity supplies. Although data centers are not the largest water users nationally, they can significantly worsen local water stress, particularly in drought-prone regions. Experts warn that Poland’s planned 5 GW of data center capacity could increase competition for water between server facilities, power plants, cities, and agriculture.

Critics are calling for environmental assessments based on regional drought risks rather than uniform consumption thresholds. The industry argues that modern European facilities use dry cooling, recycled water, rainwater retention, and free cooling. However, rising river temperatures and limited flows may still constrain both electricity generation and data center development.

(wnp.pl)