PRESS RELEASE: Cooling just one AI data center requires approximately 170 million gallons of water daily.
Vista, Ca – July 9, 2025 - The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) comes with a hidden environmental cost: enormous water consumption.
According to Investopedia, global AI demand is projected to consume between 1.1 and 1.7 trillion gallons of freshwater annually by 2027, equivalent to thirty-four billion gallons of water per week.
Where AI Uses Water
Training AI Systems A University of California study found that training an AI system for one language requires up to 185,000 gallons of water. To put this in perspective, that's enough water to manufacture 370 cars or fill three swimming pools.
Data Center Cooling Phoenix, Arizona hosts numerous data centers that harness solar energy for electricity. However, cooling just one AI data center there requires approximately 170 million gallons of water daily, straining the city's already limited water supply.
Microchip Production Manufacturing a single AI microchip consumes up to 2,200 gallons of water. Since large AI systems operate on clusters of servers containing thousands of microchips, the cumulative water demand is substantial.
Energy Generation AI data centers are expected to increase electricity demand by 16% by 2030. This surge amplifies water needs because generating this electricity requires significant amounts of water for cooling thermal power plants and nuclear facilities.
Environmental Impact
AI's water demand worsens global water scarcity and pressures local ecosystems. As AI technology becomes more prevalent, addressing this water consumption becomes increasingly critical.
Fortunately, several innovative water-saving technologies are emerging to tackle this challenge:
Air-based cooling systems that reduce reliance on water for data center temperature control
Closed-loop water recycling, which enables the reuse of cooling water
Native landscaping around AI facilities requires minimal irrigation
Water-efficient fixtures such as waterless urinals are commonplace in AI data centers
These solutions are often recommended by AI systems themselves to help reduce the industry's water footprint.
The Path Forward
"AI is here to stay," says Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc. "But we need responsible AI development that aligns technological progress with responsible, sustainable water use. That's imperative."
Reichardt adds that “balancing AI's benefits with environmental responsibility, ensures that advancement of this technology doesn't come at the expense of our planet's most precious resource.”
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Available for Interviews
Available for Interviews on Water Efficiency Issues: Klaus Reichardt, klaus@waterless.com
About Waterless
Waterless Co., Inc., Introduced waterless urinals to North America in 1991. Based in Vista, Ca, the company has become a leader in water efficiency. The company offers a full line of Waterless No-Flush urinals, cleaning solutions, and other cost-saving accessories. Visit: www.waterless.com
Media Contact: Robert Kravitz
Phone: 312-880-8176
E-Mail: robert.kravitz@outlook.com
