Data Centres: Water
Lords · Question HL3326 · Tabled 9 Sep 2026 · Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade · Official record
Answered 23 Sep 2026
Question
Asked by Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb
To ask His Majesty's Government whether hyperscale AI data centres, including the proposed data campus near Great Torrington, are required to disclose their projected water consumption for cooling before planning applications are determined; and, if not,
Answer
Answered by Baroness Lloyd of Effra, 23 Sep 2026
BSIT continues to engage with the sector and other government departments to better understand water use in data centres, supporting the adoption of efficient cooling technologies (closed-loop systems) and alternative sources like rainwater harvesting.The...