Summary
Data centers in Scotland, used for artificial intelligence (AI) tasks, consume a large amount of water, enough to fill 27 million half-liter bottles each year. These centers have been using more water since 2021, prompting discussions about finding sustainable water use solutions. The increased demand for AI computing has led to more energy and water usage by these facilities.
Key Facts
- AI data centers in Scotland use water equivalent to 27 million half-liter bottles annually.
- The number of Scottish data centers has grown, with 16 centers currently in operation.
- Water consumption by these centers has quadrupled since 2021.
- Data centers use water to cool their power-hungry equipment and prevent overheating.
- Scottish Water suggests using alternative cooling methods that conserve tap water.
- Open-loop systems in data centers require a constant supply of fresh water.
- Transitioning to closed-loop systems can save water but may increase energy use.
- More data centers, including a large AI park in Irvine, Scotland, are planned for the future.
