Schneider Electric says datacentres designed with liquid cooling and warmer coolant could substantially reduce water consumption while improving energy efficiency. Its modelling suggests cooling architecture and location should be considered early, particularly as AI systems increase rack densities and heat output, although Schneider has a commercial interest through its controlling stake in liquid-cooling specialist Motivair.

The study compares four 100 MW datacentre designs in Paris and Dallas, ranging from conventional air cooling to liquid cooling operating at 45°C. It finds that a traditionally air-cooled Dallas facility uses the most water, while warmer liquid cooling can cut consumption by at least 50%; cooling towers may use five to 20 times more water than dry coolers. Schneider stresses that the best choice depends on local water and energy costs, alongside the balance between water use and power efficiency.