Arizona residents challenge data centres over water use

TSMC’s chip complex on the outskirts of Phoenix has been welcomed as an economic success, despite using nearly 5 million gallons of municipal water a day. New proposals for hyperscale data centres are meeting much stronger opposition, as residents question whether promised jobs, tax revenue and infrastructure justify the demands on water, power and land.

The contrast reflects changing concerns in a state facing the loss of nearly 30 per cent of its Colorado River water supply. Arizona already has 172 data centres, and some facilities elsewhere use about 1.5 million gallons daily, but residents say developers’ assurances have not eased worries about further growth. A bipartisan grassroots coalition has organised against proposed projects, with locals scrutinising zoning and water use.