Timeline
Status: Completed
Description
Hyperscaler data centers are rapidly expanding to meet demand for AI, cloud computing, and digital services, creating sustainability challenges. The scope of data center-driven electric load growth and impacts on electric rates are uncertain. Water use for cooling is another challenge, particularly in water-scarce regions. At the same time, tech companies have ambitious sustainability goals and are investing in next generation clean energy technologies such as advanced nuclear and geothermal power. By prioritizing energy and water availability in their siting, increasing the transparency and efficiency of their operations, and continuing to invest in renewable energy, hyperscalers could help to accelerate sustainability solutions rather than being an impediment to a sustainable future.
Deep Tech researchers Ian Hitchcock and Merritt Cahoon survey the energy and water management challenges that massive data centers present, examine potential solutions, and outline pragmatic recommendations for companies, utilities, regulators and policymakers.
Team
Members
Ian Hitchcock
Merritt Cahoon
Leaders
Jackson Ewing
David Hoffman
Tim Profeta
Sponsors
Deep Tech Initiative
Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability
Duke Science and Society
Deep Tech Projects, Renewable Energy Technology