Wyden demands answer on data centers

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden has formally requested answers from the chief executives of Google, Apple, Meta, and Amazon concerning the water consumption and environmental footprint of their data centers in Oregon. In separate letters addressed to Sundar Pichai, Tim Cook, Mark Zuckerberg, and Andy Jassy, Senator Wyden highlighted widespread community concerns within Oregon regarding water scarcity, exacerbated by the state's ongoing drought. Wyden's inquiry focuses on the technologies employed by these tech giants, including closed-loop systems, to mitigate groundwater withdrawals and local water impacts. He noted that data centers typically require substantial energy and large volumes of water for cooling, often drawing from surface, ground, municipal, or reclaimed sources. The Senator pointed out that large data centers can consume up to 5 million gallons daily, equivalent to the water usage of a town of 10,000 to 50,000 people. He also cited reports suggesting potential water and environmental pollution if proper infrastructure is lacking. With over 100 data centers already operating in Oregon and potential for more, Wyden acknowledged their role in technological advancement and national security but emphasized the need for sustainable and transparent management to protect local communities and the environment. He has given the executives until May 29 to respond to his questions.