Amazon defends Montgomery Center data center water use amid cooling concerns
Amazon is defending its planned data center in Montgomery County, Missouri, against concerns regarding its water usage for cooling. The company asserts that its evaporative cooling systems are highly efficient, used only a small percentage of the year, and consume minimal water compared to industry standards. Amazon highlights its strategic global data center placement and the efficiency of its water use.
The video addresses concerns about Amazon's planned data center in Montgomery County, Missouri, specifically regarding its water usage for cooling. An Amazon representative explained that the company strategically locates its data centers globally, with AI's reduced latency requirements allowing for broader placement, making Missouri a viable investment.
Amazon clarified that its evaporative cooling systems would be utilized for a maximum of 7% of the year, primarily during the hottest periods. The company acknowledged research indicating that data centers' water and energy demands peak in summer months, coinciding with local residents' highest needs, citing an example of a data center in Arizona where water use nearly doubled.
However, Amazon emphasized the high efficiency of its systems, claiming their water use in its data center network is seven times more efficient than others in the industry, thus minimizing the overall water footprint.