California bills aim to boost data center water usage transparency
Two bills on Governor Gavin Newsom's desk in California aim to increase transparency regarding data centers' water usage. One bill requires operators to report water sources and usage for permits, while the other blocks local governments from approving new data centers without disclosed water plans and payment for infrastructure upgrades. Newsom has until the end of the month to sign these bills, after vetoing similar legislation last year.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is currently reviewing a pair of bills designed to increase transparency surrounding water usage by data centers across the state. Authored by San Mateo Assemblymember Diane Papan, these measures represent her second attempt to bring more accountability to the tech industry's water consumption. One bill mandates that data center operators disclose their water sources and usage when applying for or renewing business permits. The other seeks to prevent local governments from approving new data center projects unless developers provide detailed water plans and agree to cover the costs of any necessary water infrastructure upgrades.
The legislation comes amidst a growing public backlash against data centers, with several California cities having already banned new facilities due to concerns over water and energy consumption. Supporters of the bills cite a significant shift in public opinion since Newsom vetoed a similar bill last year, reportedly under pressure from the tech industry. Governor Newsom faces a deadline at the end of the month to decide whether to sign these bills into law.