21 March 2025
As the UK sets its sights on becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) while expanding its data infrastructure, energy solutions and temperature control specialist Aggreko is emphasizing the importance of water conservation through the adoption of temporary cooling solutions.
This call for action comes in light of plans to establish multiple data centres across the nation, forming ‘AI growth zones’ that could place significant stress on local water resources.
The increasing demand for data processing, driven by AI advancements, has led to escalating rack densities within data centres. As a result, a single facility can consume between 11 and 19 million litres of water daily, raising concerns among environmentalists and municipal authorities about the implications for regional water supplies.
Billy Durie, Global Sector Head for Data Centres at Aggreko, stresses the critical role data centre operators must play in aligning with the UK’s AI ambitions while safeguarding long-term water security: "the establishment of data centres is essential for attracting investment and fuelling economic growth. However, with water shortages becoming an all-too-common reality and various sustainability challenges on the horizon, it is vital to take proactive measures to avert a looming water crisis."
Durie noted the severity of the situation, citing projections that indicate a potential water deficit of nearly five billion litres per day by 2050. To combat the water-intensive nature of the data centre industry, he advocates for the implementation of modern solutions like dry coolers and closed-loop chillers designed to mitigate the impact on local water supplies.
For data centre operators considering refurbishments, upgrading cooling systems to meet the heightened demand brought on by AI is imperative. Closed-loop cooling systems, which utilize chillers or dry coolers, can significantly decrease water consumption while still delivering adequate cooling power. The mechanics of such a system involve a chiller that circulates liquid through a cooling circuit to provide an effective cooling solution with minimal water loss, as the volume of liquid remains fixed within the system.
European data centres have long adopted free cooling methods, utilizing dry coolers that draw ambient air to chill liquids within their cooling systems, enhancing efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
As the UK's aspirations for AI and technology development continue to grow, Aggreko’s emphasis on innovative cooling solutions illustrates the need for responsible resource management within the data centre industry. By taking these steps, operators can contribute to a more sustainable future while supporting the nation’s digital ambitions.
