In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the water usage and cooling methods for a new energy project, highlighting a significant shift towards dry cooling technology. The project, which utilizes underwater modules in a large cooling pool, has been designed to minimize water consumption, achieving a remarkable 95% reduction in water usage compared to traditional cooling methods.

One key point raised was the project's ability to operate without the need for additional water to cool the reactor, even in emergency situations. Unlike the Fukushima disaster, where external water was critical for cooling, the new design allows the reactor to cool itself using the water already present in the pool. This pool acts as a safety mechanism, maintaining a stable temperature for the reactor without constant water replenishment.

Officials acknowledged the need for some water to maintain the pool's levels, primarily due to evaporation, but emphasized that the overall water demand is significantly lower than previous designs. The transition to dry cooling was motivated by both environmental considerations and the high cost of acquiring water rights in drought-prone areas.

The meeting underscored the importance of adapting energy projects to address water scarcity, with officials committing to provide further details on the specific water requirements for the facility. This shift not only reflects a growing awareness of environmental impacts but also aligns with broader efforts to enhance sustainability in energy production.