AI's Hidden Cost: Water Consumption Set to Quadruple by 2028
Never in the history of this country has demand for water increased so dramatically in such a short time
Vista CA – November 12, 2025 - Artificial intelligence is creating an unprecedented water crisis. Data centers powering AI systems consumed approximately 17 billion gallons of water in 2023, a figure projected to surge to 68 billion gallons by 2028, a nearly 300% increase in just five years.
"Never in the history of this country has demand for water increased so dramatically in such a short time," says Klaus Reichardt, CEO of Waterless Co., Inc. "This will obviously reshape utility costs."
Why AI Needs So Much Water
Data centers require massive amounts of water to cool the processors running AI systems. Each AI interaction, for example a single ChatGPT query, consumes roughly one-fifth of a teaspoon of water. With ChatGPT alone handling over one billion daily interactions, the scale becomes staggering.
The Perfect Storm
The crisis is compounded by location. Many data centers are built in the country's driest regions to capitalize on solar power, placing enormous strain on already-limited water supplies.
What It Means for You
As demand begins to spike in 2026, water costs are expected to rise dramatically across affected regions. The laws of supply and demand are simple: when billions more gallons are needed annually, price increases will follow.
What It Means to Industry
No industry can operate without water, from cleaning to packaging. This means businesses in all industries should also expect to pay more for water in the coming years.
Solutions
“Obviously, the owners of these AI data centers know something must be done and quick,” says Reichardt. “However, it will take time. The best thing we can do right now is use water much more efficiently, which is a long-term reduction in water consumption.”
Sources: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the BBC
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About Waterless
Waterless Co., Inc. is a family-run business founded in 1991 and is a leader in promoting water efficiency. Based in Vista, CA, the company's product range includes various waterless urinals for home and commercial settings, liquid plumbing solutions, and cost-saving accessories, reflecting their focus on sustainability and innovation in water-saving technologies.
