Project Specifics

One of the world’s largest data center developers required a secure and reliable water supply and wastewater-management strategy to support the development of new data centers. This initiative encompassed several key objectives, beginning with water rights confirmation and supply reliability validation at prospective data center sites. The requirement for water-supply development is driven by the substantial water demands associated with data center cooling systems, the necessity to obtain high-quality water to meet internal design and operational standards and comply with regulations, and the developer’s goals of achieving water budget neutrality. Providing sustainable long-term operations also involved navigating complex permitting processes by coordinating with regulatory agencies and project partners, including local utility districts. This collaborative approach was essential to meet the required water demands and establish resilient water infrastructure. This work is ongoing and expands across multiple geographies, data center designs, and water-supply conditions.

Geosyntec Scope of Services

To achieve the developer’s objectives, Geosyntec provided comprehensive support to manage business risks in meeting water supply demands of new data centers while navigating site-specific complexities. Our team of hydrogeologists and engineers evaluated both legal water availability and physical supply reliability at prospective locations throughout the Northwestern United States. Limitations and opportunities for connecting existing water systems were evaluated for co-benefits. Hydrogeologic assessments were conducted to understand subsurface site conditions, assess infrastructure limitations, identify potential supply risks, quantify available groundwater potential, and analyze water quality to comply with regulations and internal requirements. These services include well siting, well drilling, and performance testing. We also guided this developer through challenging and complex permitting processes associated with land application of wastewater and Environmental Protection Act compliance.

Notable Accomplishments

Geosyntec’s deep expertise and knowledge in water resources and regulatory compliance helped the data center developer minimize its business risk, accelerate the project timelines, and develop plans for a sustainable water supply that supported long-term operational reliability.

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