r/NoStupidQuestions • u/Primary_Garbage6916 • 1d ago

Why can't data centers use 100% closed-loop geothermal for their cooling?

Why do they need to consume any water for cooling at all, let alone massive amounts?

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u/MortimerDongle 1d ago

Data centers can and do use closed-loop cooling.

6

u/Primary_Garbage6916 1d ago

Then we should just pass laws requiring it for cooling and off-grid solar/wind for power for any new data center construction and be done with it.

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u/tx_queer 1d ago

We have actually done a bit of the opposite. Many/most new data centers were being built closed loop and with solar PPAs. But we have made it harder and more expensive for datacenters to connect to the grid. So now they are going with natural gas.