How Meta plans to cut down on water use at its massive Alberta data centre
Meta is building a massive AI data center in Alberta, Canada, which will utilize a closed-loop cooling system to minimize water consumption. This design avoids the high water usage typical of evaporative cooling systems by using a coolant fluid to dissipate heat through external fans.
Why it matters
As AI infrastructure expands, the environmental impact of data centers—specifically regarding water and electricity usage—has become a critical concern for local communities and regulators.
The tech behemoth was announcing a $13-billion-plus investment in a complex the size of 33 Canadian Football League fields. It will be powered by a new natural gas plant that could eventually produce more electricity than what the City of Edmonton uses.
The article balances the company's investment news with expert commentary on the technical and environmental implications of the cooling system.
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