Europe Told To Cool Its Datacenter Boom Before Water, Power Run Short

Source: Slashdot

Report Summary

• Europe’s datacenter boom could strain water supplies and power grids unless regulators incorporate water and energy efficiency into planning, reporting, and incentives.
• Current EU‑wide server‑farm IT load: ~10 GW (today). Projected load by 2030: ~35 GW.
• Datacenters now account for ~3 % of EU electricity consumption; projected to reach 7‑9 % by the end of the decade.
• Cooling systems are a major resource user:
  • Cooling infrastructure represents ~38 % of total electricity consumption in an average facility.
  • Large hyperscale facilities can demand 11,356 – 18,927 m³ of water per day – enough for up to 155,000 EU households.

Risks

• Rapid growth in “bit barns” increases pressure on energy systems, water resources, and local infrastructure.
• Inefficient or poorly sited facilities risk worsening these problems and triggering public opposition.

Recommendations

• Regulatory integration: Embed water‑efficiency and cooling‑design requirements into planning approvals for new facilities and major expansions.
• Investment incentives: Offer tax credits, green financing mechanisms, and grant programs for technologies that demonstrably reduce energy and water consumption.
• District‑heating integration: Explore linking server halls with district heating networks.

Reference: Slashdot.