Denver Data Center Could Use Over 800,000 Gallons of Water Daily
A new data center developed by CoreSite in north Denver could consume up to 805,000 gallons of water daily when all three planned buildings are operational. The facility is located in a neighborhood with a history of pollution, and the developer has faced criticism for a lack of community engagement. Denver recently enacted a yearlong moratorium on new data centers and is experiencing a Stage 1 drought.
A proposed data center in north Denver, developed by CoreSite, is projected to consume up to 805,000 gallons of water daily for cooling if all three planned buildings are constructed. This figure significantly contrasts with the average single-family home's daily water usage of approximately 200 gallons, as reported by Denver Water.
CoreSite, which already operates two data centers in downtown Denver, has encountered criticism regarding its community engagement efforts for the new facility. The project, encompassing up to 590,000 square feet at East 49th Avenue and Race Street, is situated in an area known for historical pollution.
Despite current data centers in Denver Water's service area accounting for less than 1% of the 180 million gallons used daily, the city of Denver passed a yearlong moratorium on new data centers in May. This action coincides with city officials declaring a Stage 1 drought, which has led to increased watering restrictions.