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Industry rep explains closed-loop cooling: minimal operational discharge but large initial fills possible
Summary
A data-center developer representative told the Janesville council that modern closed-loop cooling systems usually use little municipal water during operation, but initial fills and landscaping irrigation can require millions of gallons; he also highlighted jobs and market growth.
Dale Lewis, director of data center development for Bolt Company, told the Janesville City Council on March 23 that modern AI-scale data centers largely use closed‑loop cooling systems that minimize continuous municipal water withdrawals, though initial fills and landscaping needs can require substantial volumes.
"Closed loop systems ... they don't really use any of your local water. It's like your car radiator," Lewis said, describing how closed systems are sealed, filled with a final chemical/glycol mix by specialist firms (for example…
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