JPMorgan Chase has issued a report highlighting the water demands of artificial intelligence technologies, which it says are placing new pressures on America’s limited water supply. Data centers and semiconductor manufacturing are two of the largest water consumers in this rapidly growing field.
AI-driven industries require enormous amounts of water. Data centers use up to 5 million gallons per day for cooling, while semiconductor factories use water-intensive processes that also generate toxic waste. This trend could worsen shortages in regions already facing water issues, the report cautions.
Not only that, but, the computers require so much computing power, which generates so much heat, they use a LOT of water to keep them from overheating. Training ONE AI program for three weeks can require over 250,000 gallons. It's harmful RIGHT NOW, let alone long-term. https://t.co/VZwwH5vUFY
— Lakyn Thee Stylist (@OgLakyn) September 16, 2024
The water-intensive nature of these technologies is compounded by growing populations in dry, hot regions of the country. In 2023, U.S. data centers consumed more than 75 billion gallons of water, with 20% sourced from areas with water shortages, according to the report.
JPMorgan urges action to manage these demands, suggesting investments in water infrastructure to close the $91 billion annual funding gap. Proposed technologies, such as advanced cooling systems that use less water and innovative recycling methods, could mitigate the pressure on water supplies.
Without these steps, the report warns that both industry and communities could face severe impacts. AI is a promising technology, but its growth needs to align with sustainable practices to ensure long-term water availability for all.
