Key Highlights
- Data infrastructure in India is rapidly expanding due to the adoption of AI and mobile internet.
- The Indian data center market is projected to grow by 77% by 2027.
- Rapid expansion of energy-hungry facilities poses serious sustainability challenges, particularly in water-scarce urban clusters like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
- By 2030, India’s data center water consumption could reach 358 billion liters, risking shortages for local communities and critical services.
Data Infrastructure Growth in India: Environmental Concerns
The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers in India is raising significant environmental concerns. As the country continues to embrace digital technologies, a critical issue has emerged: the strain on water and energy resources.
Expanding Data Center Market
India’s data center market is experiencing exponential growth, driven by the increasing adoption of AI, mobile internet expansion, and substantial foreign investment from tech giants such as Google, Amazon, and Meta. According to industry projections, this sector will expand by 77% by 2027, with billions more expected to be invested in capacity by 2030.
Rising Sustainability Challenges
The proliferation of energy-intensive data centers is exacerbating environmental pressures, particularly in urban clusters like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. These cities are already water-scarce, making the rapid expansion of data centers a significant concern for local communities and critical services.
Water Consumption Concerns
Experts predict that by 2030, India’s data center water consumption could reach an alarming 358 billion liters. This projection highlights the potential for severe water shortages and underscores the urgent need to address these environmental challenges.
Exploring Mitigation Solutions
In response to these concerns, authorities and industry players are exploring innovative solutions such as treated wastewater reuse, low-stress basin selection, and zero-water cooling technologies. These measures aim to mitigate the environmental impact of data centers while ensuring sustainable operations.
Mandatory Renewable Energy Use
Additionally, officials emphasize the importance of mandating renewable energy use to balance India’s digital ambitions with decarbonization goals. This approach not only addresses immediate sustainability concerns but also aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and promote green technology.
Expert Perspectives on AI and Data Centers
Industry experts highlight the need for a holistic approach that integrates sustainable practices into data center development. They argue that while digital infrastructure is crucial for economic growth, it must be developed with environmental stewardship in mind to ensure long-term viability.
“The rapid expansion of AI and data centers presents both opportunities and challenges,” says Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a leading environmental scientist at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai. “We need to strike a balance between technological advancement and sustainable development.”
Finding a Path Forward
The growing environmental concerns surrounding data infrastructure growth in India highlight the critical need for collaboration among government agencies, industry leaders, and environmental experts. By adopting innovative solutions and implementing mandatory renewable energy use policies, India can navigate this digital transformation while preserving its natural resources.
As the country continues to invest heavily in AI and data centers, it is essential to prioritize sustainability and develop frameworks that support both technological progress and environmental protection.
