AI Data Centres in Scotland Face Major Water Use Concerns
Data centres across Scotland that power artificial intelligence (AI) tools are consuming enough tap water annually to fill 27 million half-litre bottles, according to data obtained by BBC News.
The 16 centres — which host the servers behind technologies like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini — rely heavily on water to cool equipment to prevent overheating.
Freedom of Information data revealed that water usage by Scottish data centres has quadrupled since 2021, reflecting the sharp rise in demand for AI computing.
Scottish Water described the increase as “significant,” though it still represents just 0.005% of the country’s total water supply.
Operations manager Colin Lindsay said the organisation is now urging developers to explore alternatives, such as using wastewater instead of “precious tap water.”
Most Scottish data centres currently rely on “open loop” cooling systems, which require a constant supply of fresh water.
However, the industry is shifting toward “closed loop” systems that recycle the water, reducing overall consumption.
The University of Glasgow estimated that the water used by Scottish data centres equals every person in the country drinking an additional 2.48 litres per year.
The carbon footprint is equally concerning, equivalent to every Scot driving up to 90 extra miles annually.
Despite the environmental impact, more centres are planned, including a large AI industrial park near Irvine in Ayrshire.
Experts and government officials say sustainable infrastructure, powered by renewable energy and efficient water systems, will be essential as Scotland positions itself as a global AI hub.