Google Says $15 Billion Visakhapatnam AI Data Centre Will Use Air Cooling Amid Water Scarcity Concerns

A $15 billion artificial intelligence data center project in Visakhapatnam, India, will utilize air cooling technology to mitigate concerns over freshwater scarcity, according to Google. The facility under construction in Andhra Pradesh is set to become operational by 2028 and will serve as Google's largest AI hub outside the United States.

Alexander Smith, Google's Head of Infrastructure and Energy for Asia-Pacific, revealed that environmental factors, including water availability, influenced the decision to prioritize air cooling over water-based systems.

Google conducts thorough environmental assessments, including water risk evaluations, before selecting locations for major infrastructure projects. The assessment for the Visakhapatnam site identified pressure on the local watershed, leading to the selection of air cooling technology. Despite Google's commitment to replenishing 120% of the freshwater consumed across its operations by 2030, concerns persist among local residents and environmental activists regarding the project's impact on water resources, electricity availability, and surrounding ecosystems.

The coastal location of Visakhapatnam offers access to international submarine internet cables, potentially establishing Andhra Pradesh as India's third major subsea connectivity hub. Smith also highlighted the city's potential for local partnerships and access to technology talent. However, the project has faced opposition from residents, who have raised concerns about the adequacy of employment opportunities and the acquisition process, which some landowners claim has been unfair.

The Andhra Pradesh government maintains that eligible residents are receiving compensation and replacement housing, but allegations of forced acquisition persist. Google maintains that the project is a long-term investment, yet unresolved concerns about resource consumption and community rehabilitation remain.