923 The Dark Side of America's AI Data Centres

26 Feb 2026Data centres in Arizona, Utah, and Nevada consume vast amounts of water for cooling, exacerbating existing water shortages in these desert states. Despite the environmental impact, these states actively attract data centres with tax incentives and infrastructure development, prioritising economic benefits over water conservation. The reliance on evaporative cooling and groundwater pumping further strains water resources, raising concerns about sustainability and the long-term impact on local communities.Data centres, particularly those supporting AI, are a significant drain on water resources in drought-prone states like Arizona, Utah, and Nevada. Despite the availability of water-saving technologies, these centres often rely on traditional cooling methods due to cost considerations. Public pressure and legal challenges are mounting, but the impact of data centres on water supplies remains a complex issue.