As data centers continue to expand across the United States to support cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure, NGWA is underscoring the critical role groundwater professionals play in helping communities and companies manage water resources responsibly.
Groundwater professionals can support sustainable data center development through hydrogeologic evaluation, water-use planning, community engagement, and innovative cooling solutions—including geothermal systems and managed aquifer recharge. These approaches can significantly reduce or, in some cases, eliminate net groundwater consumption while supporting local water security.
To further advance responsible practices, NGWA has launched a Data Center Task Force of NGWA members focused on developing guidance for policymakers, utilities, communities, and data center developers. The task force works to address groundwater availability, transparency in water use, and best practices for siting and operating data centers in ways that protect long-term water resources
As data centers move into more regions, particularly groundwater-reliant and rural communities, it’s essential that water resource professionals and communities are part of the conversation early. NGWA is committed to bringing science, expertise, and practical solutions to the table, and promoting wider conversations about the development of data centers.
Data Centers and Groundwater Resources
NGWA published this position paper in 2026 that provides information about the importance of data center growth factoring in planning and management that protects groundwater resources that are relied upon by communities and ecosystems. It is ideal for sharing with local, state, and federal officials. Download the position paper.
Water Well Journal series, “Data Centers and Groundwater.”
NGWA’s monthly trade publication, Water Well Journal did a three-part series titled “Data Centers and Groundwater” in its January, February, and March 2026 issues. Read the full articles below.
Part, WWJ January 2026: Details the growing concerns about groundwater resources and data centers, and introduces hydrogeologic approaches that could conserve water.
Part 2, WWJ February 2026: Explains that cooling data centers isn’t a small task and that some groundwater industry manufacturers can play a key part in the efforts.
Part 3, WWJ March 2026: Delves into three different types of geothermal systems that can be the solution for data center cooling.