Tech giants claim data centres becoming more water-efficient

Global data centres consumed approximately 222 billion litres of water in 2025, according to recent analysis by energy consultancy Rystad Energy. The figure underscores the significant environmental footprint of the computing infrastructure underpinning artificial intelligence and cloud services.

Tech giants operating large-scale data centre facilities have responded by deploying advanced cooling systems and water recirculation technologies designed to lower consumption rates. These innovations include direct liquid cooling, which cools processors more efficiently than traditional air-based systems, and improved water recycling protocols that allow facilities to reuse water multiple times before discharge.

Without the adoption of such adaptive measures, projections indicate global data centre water consumption could surge to 644 billion litres annually by 2030. This trajectory has prompted major technology companies to publicly commit to water efficiency targets as part of broader environmental sustainability initiatives.

The efficiency gains come amid growing scrutiny of data centres' environmental impact, particularly in water-stressed regions where computing facilities compete with agricultural and municipal demands. Industry analysts suggest that continued investment in cooling innovation will be essential to manage projected growth in data centre capacity over the coming decade.