Hudspeth: Denton’s two data center projects
Two data centers, Core Scientific and Qumulus, are under development in Denton, Texas. The article details their projected interaction with Denton's electric and water systems, noting ERCOT's approval for Core Scientific and both companies' low water usage designs. The facilities will pay Denton Municipal Electric for 100% of their energy use.
Denton, Texas, is currently host to two data center projects under development: Core Scientific and Qumulus. The former Mayor, in a final column, addresses community questions regarding how these facilities will impact the city's electric and water infrastructure.
Regarding electricity, Denton Municipal Electric (DME) will bill both data centers for 100% of their energy consumption and delivery costs. Core Scientific's project, due to its size, underwent and received approval from the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), the state's grid operator, to ensure it would not strain the power grid.
For water usage, both data centers have incorporated designs aimed at minimizing demand. Core Scientific will utilize a closed-loop water system for continuous coolant recirculation, while Qumulus will employ an air-cooled system, with its primary water use for fire suppression. Combined, the initial fill and testing period for both facilities is projected to use approximately 5.44 million gallons, which represents less than one percent of the City of Denton's annual water treatment volume. Subsequent annual water use is anticipated to be even lower.