Artificial intelligence is driving rapid expansion of UK data centres, bringing renewed attention to the environmental demands of the infrastructure powering AI services.
Data centres generate significant heat and require cooling, with some facilities worldwide relying on large volumes of water. In England, many operators use more water-efficient cooling systems under stricter regulations, although electricity demand remains substantial.
At Digital Realty’s London Docklands facility, river water is circulated through heat exchangers before being returned, eliminating the need for mains water in the cooling process. As AI adoption accelerates, industry figures say expanding renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure will be essential to support growing demand while addressing concerns over rising temperatures and drought.
ℹ️ Al Jazeera
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