Phoenix officials consider water restrictions for data center cooling systems

The Mesa City Council held a study session on June 26, 2025, focusing on critical discussions surrounding water consumption, energy management, and noise mitigation related to data centers in the city. The meeting aimed to address the implications of new data center developments on local resources and infrastructure.

The session began with a request for a comprehensive water consumption and thermal management report from data center applicants. Council members emphasized the need for clarity on whether cooling systems would utilize water or air, with a particular focus on the implications of water usage in a desert environment. Concerns were raised about the sustainability of using water as a cooling method, especially given the ongoing water shortages in the region.

A significant point of discussion was the potential restriction of water as a cooling source for data centers. One council member expressed discomfort with allocating water for cooling purposes, suggesting that alternatives should be explored due to the increasing demand for water in other sectors. The conversation highlighted the unique challenges faced by Mesa, which relies heavily on Colorado River water.

The council also discussed the requirement for an initial sound study to assess the noise impact of data centers on nearby residential areas. This study aims to establish baseline sound levels and ensure that data center operations do not exceed acceptable noise thresholds.

Energy management was another key topic, with discussions about allowing data centers to generate their own electricity through on-site power sources, such as natural gas or microgrids. However, council members noted the regulatory challenges associated with air permitting and the current capacity of natural gas in the state. The feasibility of on-site power generation remains uncertain, with concerns about air quality and emissions from backup generators.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for further exploration of these issues, particularly regarding water policies and energy management strategies for future data center developments. The council plans to continue discussions on these topics in upcoming meetings, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability and resource management.