Press Release: Wisconsin Emerges as a Prime Location for AI Data Centers Amid Water Resource Concerns
Wisconsin is attracting attention from companies seeking to establish AI data centers, primarily due to its abundant water resources, thanks to its proximity to two Great Lakes—home to the world’s largest freshwater system. As climate change considerations grow, businesses are increasingly evaluating water availability in their operational decisions.
AI data centers require substantial water for cooling, necessitating high-quality potable water. These centers often rely on local drinking water systems or tap into the state’s significant sandstone aquifer, which serves many communities. However, concerns arise as competition for this vital resource intensifies, pitting data centers against communities, agriculture, and other industries, particularly during drought periods.
While companies like Microsoft are exploring water recycling methods to minimize environmental impact, the broader implications of increased data center activity remain uncertain. The lack of communication between states sharing these resources exacerbates potential challenges, leaving officials and communities in the dark about anticipated withdrawal levels and environmental stresses. As developments unfold, stakeholders and residents await clearer assessments of how these shifts will affect Wisconsin’s precious water supplies.
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