AI Data Centers Threaten Europe's Water Supply

AI Data Centers Strain Europe's Water Supply

The rapid expansion of AI data centers in Europe is threatening the region's water supply, as tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon build facilities in water-stressed areas. While these companies aim to meet growing demands for AI processing, their operations are consuming millions of liters of water annually, sparking concern among local communities and environmental groups.

In Spain, particularly in the northeastern region of Aragon, farmers are already grappling with droughts and water scarcity. The arrival of data centers in these areas has intensified competition for water, as these facilities require significant amounts for cooling purposes. This growing demand is clashing with the needs of local populations, who rely on the same resources for agriculture and daily life.

The Water Footprint of Data Centers

Data centers are essential for powering AI technologies, but their water consumption is substantial. In 2024, the European data center industry used approximately 62 million cubic meters of water, a figure projected to reach 90 million cubic meters by 2030. Microsoft, for instance, nearly doubled its water usage between 2020 and 2023, reaching nearly 8 million cubic meters.

These figures highlight the environmental impact of AI data centers, which are becoming increasingly critical to the EU's technology ambitions. The European Commission aims to triple the region's data center capacity in the coming years, but this growth could exacerbate water scarcity in areas already under strain.

Local Pushback and Concerns

Local communities and activist groups are voicing their opposition to the expansion of data centers. In Spain, grassroots organizations are calling for a moratorium on new facilities, arguing that water resources should prioritize local needs, particularly for farmers who are most vulnerable to water shortages.

Local officials have also expressed concerns, with some opposing plans for new data centers in their regions. This resistance underscores the growing tension between technological advancement and environmental sustainability, as communities weigh the benefits of AI against the costs to their water supplies.

Sustainable Solutions and Industry Efforts

Tech companies are exploring ways to reduce their water footprint. Microsoft, for example, is using AI to improve water efficiency in Spain by detecting leaks in infrastructure. Others are developing more water-efficient technologies, such as liquid cooling and closed-loop water recycling systems.

Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Google have all set goals to become water positive by 2030. However, critics argue that these efforts may not be enough to offset the growing demand for water in regions like Spain. Some activists view these initiatives as greenwashing, noting that companies like Amazon are seeking to increase their water usage in already stressed areas.

Government Response and Policy

The Spanish government has highlighted its Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which includes measures to promote sustainable data centers. However, critics argue that these efforts may not go far enough to address the growing water crisis.

The European Commission's Water Resilience Strategy suggests that sectors like data centers should maximize water savings. While these policies aim to balance technological growth with environmental sustainability, their effectiveness remains to be seen. As AI data centers continue to expand, the tension between water supply and demand will likely intensify, requiring innovative solutions and stronger regulations to protect Europe's water resources.