How data centers stay cool while reducing water usage demands
Amid growing public backlash over data centers' significant power and water usage, a Silicon Valley company is developing technology to improve efficiency. This technology is being implemented at a facility in Knoxville, Tennessee, aiming to help data centers operate more ethically and reduce their environmental impact.
Data center backlash is increasing across Tennessee and the country due to concerns about high power demands and extensive water consumption. In response, an unnamed Silicon Valley company, represented by founder Zastri, is developing technology to enhance data center efficiency. This technology is being utilized at the 10 hats facility in Knoxville.
The company emphasizes that while data centers are crucial for online information consumption, local businesses are proactively adopting ethical practices regarding AI and data centers. Zastri explained that most data centers, including 10 hats in Knoxville, use direct expansion or liquid cooling methods that do not consume water in a closed-loop system, unlike evaporation cooling which is responsible for high water usage. He criticized data centers that harm the environment but stressed that the industry is moving away from ineffective evaporation cooling to meet consumer demand more responsibly.
Both Zastri and the reporter highlighted the importance of accountability for data centers, suggesting that communities can protect their water supplies by inquiring about the cooling systems used by facilities. They recommend verifying that primary and secondary cooling loops are closed, meaning they do not use water. The report also mentioned CleanSpark, a Bitcoin mining company, which informed the Jellico board of mayor and alderman that its Scott County facility uses immersion cooling, a waterless method.