What Is Water Usage Effectiveness in GCC Data Centers?

Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) is a key metric for measuring how efficiently data centers use water in relation to their IT energy consumption. This is especially important in the GCC, where water scarcity is a critical issue due to limited rainfall, high desalination dependence, and increasing digital infrastructure demands.

Key Points:

• WUE Calculation: Total annual water usage ÷ IT energy consumption (litres per kWh).
• GCC Water Challenges: Less than 100 mm annual rainfall, with over 60% of water needs met through energy-intensive desalination.
• Data Center Impact: A 1 MW facility can use over 26 million litres of water annually.
• Solutions:
  • Switch to waterless or low-water cooling systems (e.g., air-cooled, liquid cooling).
  • Adopt water recycling technologies like Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD).
  • Use renewable energy for desalination and cooling systems.
• Benchmarks: Leading operators like AWS and Equinix have achieved WUE as low as 0.15–1.07 L/kWh, while the GCC aims for 0.4 L/kWh by 2040.

Quick Comparison:

Improving WUE in GCC data centers requires balancing water and energy efficiency, adopting innovative cooling technologies, and focusing on sustainability goals to address the region's unique water challenges.

What Is Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE)

Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) measures how much water is used for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of IT energy consumed. This metric holds particular importance in the GCC, where water scarcity is a pressing concern. Let’s explore how WUE is calculated, its significance, and how it compares to other efficiency metrics.

WUE Definition and How It’s Measured

WUE is calculated by dividing the total annual water usage of a site by the energy consumed by its IT equipment. The result, expressed in litres per kWh (L/kWh), serves as a standard for assessing and comparing water efficiency across various facilities.

This calculation includes both direct water uses - like cooling, humidification, and maintenance - and indirect water consumption during power generation. For example, power generation typically uses 7.6 L/kWh, while IT cooling consumes about 1.8 L/kWh. Regularly monitoring WUE helps identify areas where water usage can be reduced.

Accurate WUE measurement requires tracking all water sources, such as municipal water, groundwater, recycled water, and alternative options like treated wastewater or seawater. Given the GCC’s reliance on energy-intensive desalination processes, this detailed tracking becomes even more critical in addressing the region's water scarcity challenges.

WUE Compared to Other Efficiency Metrics

WUE complements other metrics like Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) and Carbon Usage Effectiveness (CUE). While PUE evaluates overall energy efficiency by comparing total energy use to IT energy use, CUE focuses on the carbon emissions linked to IT energy consumption. WUE, on the other hand, zeroes in on water sustainability - a particularly vital metric for arid regions like the GCC.

The average WUE for data centres globally is around 1.8 L/kWh. However, some industry leaders have achieved much lower values. For example, Facebook reported a WUE of just 0.24 L/kWh, while Equinix recorded an average WUE of 1.07 across its portfolio and 1.63 in facilities using evaporative cooling in 2023.

These metrics often involve trade-offs. Andrew Higgins, Global Head of Masterplanning and Sustainability at Equinix, explains:

"Unlike power usage effectiveness (PUE), a comparable metric for energy efficiency, there are few opportunities to improve WUE after a facility is operational."

For instance, switching from evaporative cooling to air cooling can lower water use and improve WUE. However, this may increase energy consumption, negatively affecting PUE. In the GCC’s hot climate, such trade-offs are particularly challenging to navigate.

Higgins also highlights the importance of considering these metrics together:

"To properly account for the trade-off between water and energy use, WUE should be measured and reported alongside PUE."

Regulations that focus solely on aggressive WUE targets without accounting for PUE or local environmental factors could lead to unintended consequences, such as higher energy consumption. This issue is especially relevant as Saudi Arabia introduces new sustainability regulations for data centres, which include water usage management requirements.

How to Calculate and Benchmark WUE in GCC Data Centers

WUE Calculation Formula and Requirements

In the GCC, where water scarcity is a pressing issue, calculating Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) accurately is crucial. Every drop of water matters.

The formula for WUE is straightforward:

WUE = Total Annual Site Water Usage / IT Equipment Energy Usage.

To ensure accuracy, it’s essential to measure both components precisely. This includes tracking total water usage for cooling, humidification, and maintenance, alongside the energy consumption of IT equipment. Dedicated water and energy meters are key to isolating IT-related consumption. However, older data centers in the GCC might face hurdles due to shared power distribution systems. Modern facilities are better equipped, often designed with integrated metering systems for reliable data collection.

Globally, data centers consume a staggering amount of water - over 560 billion litres annually. By 2030, this figure is expected to more than double, reaching 1,200 billion litres. In the Middle East and Africa region, water consumption is projected to exceed 92 billion litres in 2024 and rise to approximately 426.31 billion litres by 2030, driven by an annual growth rate of around 29%.

Accurate WUE measurements lay the groundwork for benchmarking water efficiency and identifying areas for improvement.

WUE Performance Benchmarks and Standards

Once WUE is calculated, comparing these figures to industry benchmarks helps pinpoint performance gaps and opportunities for optimisation. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average WUE for a data center using evaporative cooling systems is about 1.8 litres per kWh. However, some operators have achieved much lower WUE values by employing advanced cooling technologies.

For example, AWS reported a global WUE of 0.15 litres per kWh of IT load in 2024, with regional variations such as 0.04 L/kWh in Europe, 0.13 L/kWh in North America, and 0.98 L/kWh in the Asia Pacific. Similarly, Equinix achieved an average portfolio WUE of 1.07 L/kWh, with facilities using evaporative cooling systems reaching 1.63 L/kWh in 2023.

In the arid GCC region, the Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact has set an ambitious target of reducing water usage to 400 ml per kWh by 2040. Achieving this is particularly challenging due to the region's extreme heat and limited water resources.

To tackle these challenges, regional operators are adopting innovative solutions. For instance, Africa Data Centres has nearly eliminated water use by implementing closed-loop cooling systems and Atmospheric Water Generators, demonstrating resilience in drought-prone areas. On the other hand, Khazna Data Centers' AUH6 facility employs evaporative cooling with adiabatic methods using water sprinklers. While effective, these systems raise concerns about overall water efficiency compared to alternative, more sustainable cooling technologies.

Consider this: an average 100 MW data center consumes about two million litres of water daily. Some facilities even use between 3 and 5 million gallons per day, equivalent to the water usage of a mid-sized city. For GCC operators, where water is often produced through energy-intensive desalination, achieving efficient WUE is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic imperative.

"Every part of the state is facing this water-energy nexus crisis."

This insight from hydrologist Amy Bush underscores the broader challenge for data center operators in water-stressed regions like the GCC. It highlights the urgent need for innovative engineering solutions and meticulous performance tracking to strike a balance between cooling demands and water conservation. Benchmarking WUE is more than just a performance metric - it’s a critical tool for shaping sustainable water management strategies tailored to the unique conditions of the GCC.

How to Improve Water Usage Effectiveness in GCC Data Centres

Enhancing water efficiency in GCC data centres is no small task. The region's arid climate and high cooling demands make it essential for operators to adopt smart strategies that conserve water without compromising performance. Here's how they can tackle this challenge.

Water-Efficient Cooling System Options

Cooling systems are one of the biggest energy and water consumers in data centres, but newer technologies are changing the game. Options like district cooling, air-cooled systems, and liquid cooling are helping reduce water reliance while maintaining high performance.

District cooling systems, in particular, are reshaping how data centres in the GCC handle cooling. These systems can cut energy use by up to 50% compared to traditional air conditioning, and they also lower peak power demand by as much as 30%. Considering that cooling systems can account for 40–50% of total energy costs in the GCC, district cooling is an attractive solution. The market for district cooling in the Middle East and Africa is also expected to grow at a CAGR of over 7.89% from 2024 to 2030.

Air-cooled and liquid cooling systems are gaining popularity as well. Unlike traditional evaporative cooling towers, these systems use minimal water. Meanwhile, adiabatic-free cooling chillers offer effective temperature regulation without heavy water consumption. Using efficient cooling materials like aluminium or copper-brass radiators can further optimise performance.

"Improving the energy efficiency of these systems is critical for: Sustainability: Reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. Climate Action: Achieving carbon neutrality and supporting global net‐zero goals."

• Global Carbon Council

The Global Carbon Council has also introduced the Energy Efficiency Measures in Existing Centralized Cooling Systems (GCCM006) methodology, which aims to promote energy-efficient cooling and reduce carbon emissions across the MENA region.

Water Recycling and Reuse Programs

Efficient cooling systems are just one piece of the puzzle. Recycling and reusing water is equally important for improving water usage effectiveness (WUE) in the GCC. Since the region is water-scarce, reducing dependence on freshwater is a top priority. Globally, the water reuse market for data centres is projected to hit USD 919.33 million by 2031.

Setting measurable water targets encourages accountability. Some operators aim to return 110% of the water they consume, while others are implementing 30–50% on-site water recycling. Real-time monitoring of water usage, especially in cooling systems, allows operators to track WUE and identify areas for improvement.

Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) technology is emerging as a game-changer in water recycling. ZLD systems treat and reuse wastewater and by-products, eliminating liquid waste entirely. While the upfront costs are high, this approach is especially valuable in regions like the GCC, where water resources are limited.

Water Management Solutions from Regional and Global Providers

Both regional and global providers are stepping up with innovative water management strategies. Companies like Gradiant are partnering with tech firms to create integrated water solutions that combine recycling, AI optimisation, and specialised chemical formulations.

"Building a data centre without a water strategy is not an option. These facilities are as thirsty as they are power hungry."

• Anurag Bajpayee, CEO of Gradiant

Fujitsu, for example, managed to cut energy use by 48% in its Australian data centres through advanced environmental data analysis.

In the GCC, community-based water stewardship is gaining traction. Operators are investing in renewable energy-powered desalination plants and aquifer recharge programmes. This is critical, as GCC countries produce nearly half of the world's desalinated water, and the UAE relies on desalination for 42% of its potable water. Improving desalination processes and integrating renewable energy can significantly reduce the environmental impact of water production.

With global data centre water use expected to more than double by 2030, reaching 1,200 billion litres annually, the need for effective water management in the GCC is more urgent than ever. Operators that fail to adopt comprehensive water strategies risk operational disruptions and regulatory hurdles as water scarcity becomes an even greater concern. By embracing these innovative solutions, GCC data centres can lead the way in sustainable water usage.

Water Usage Practices Comparison Across GCC Data Centres

Data centres in the GCC region showcase a variety of water management practices and Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) metrics, influenced by the region's arid climate and limited water resources. Despite these challenges, operators have implemented diverse strategies to address water scarcity.

Facilities positioned near alternative water sources or equipped with advanced cooling systems tend to achieve better WUE outcomes. In 2024, colocation data centres in the Middle East and Africa operate with an IT load capacity of about 1,868.90 MW, spread across 6.71 million square feet of raised floor space. Water consumption is expected to exceed 92 billion litres in 2024 and could climb to 426.31 billion litres by 2030, growing at a compound annual rate of 29%.

Operators employ a range of cooling technologies to manage water use. Liquid cooling systems, for instance, are up to 22.4 times more energy-efficient than traditional air cooling systems. However, many facilities still depend on evaporative cooling methods, which are less efficient.

WUE Performance and Practice Comparison Table

The table below highlights key differences in water management strategies and WUE performance among leading GCC operators.

The gap between leading operators and traditional ones is significant. Africa Data Centres, for example, has achieved near-zero WUE by using closed-loop cooling systems and Atmospheric Water Generators, complemented by on-site storage to safeguard against droughts.

Meanwhile, Khazna Data Centers' AUH6 facility employs evaporative cooling and water sprinklers for air cooling. While this conventional method reduces water use, it doesn't reach the near-zero WUE levels seen with closed-loop systems.

The Microsoft-G42 Partnership demonstrates a strong commitment to water conservation, investing US$1 billion in a Kenyan facility that integrates geothermal-powered systems for optimised WUE.

Geographic factors and access to water sources also play a crucial role in WUE variations. Data centres located in cooler areas or near alternative water sources tend to report better WUE metrics. Despite the GCC's strategic position as a hub for international connectivity via major subsea cable routes, its dry climate demands advanced water management solutions.

New facility designs are increasingly incorporating cutting-edge cooling technologies and adhering to stricter sustainability standards. These developments align with the region's growing emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, further supporting the sustainable water strategies outlined above.

Key Takeaways on WUE for GCC Data Centers

Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) is becoming a critical metric for sustainability in GCC data centers, especially given the region's acute water scarcity. This issue is highlighted by the fact that since 2022, two-thirds of new data centers have been built or are being developed in areas facing high water stress. This makes it essential to explore smarter water management strategies.

The sheer volume of water consumed by data centers underscores the need for immediate action. In the GCC, where water is already a limited resource, data centers must adopt efficient conservation practices to ensure that vital sectors like agriculture are not adversely affected.

To tackle this, providers in the region are introducing groundbreaking solutions for water efficiency. For instance, AWS has set an impressive WUE benchmark of 0.15 L/kWh for 2024. This showcases how hyperscalers are leveraging advanced cooling technologies and robust water management programs to lead the way.

Looking ahead, strategic priorities for GCC data centers should focus on water-efficient cooling systems. Air-cooled systems can handle lighter workloads like basic AI tasks, while liquid cooling is better suited for operations that generate significant heat. Additionally, government initiatives like the UAE's Water Security Strategy 2036 are promoting water recycling and renewable desalination, which could lead to long-term cost savings.

The financial aspect of water sustainability is another key consideration. While waterless cooling systems involve higher initial costs compared to water-based ones, they eliminate ongoing water treatment expenses and minimize regulatory risks. To improve sustainability, data centers should implement real-time WUE monitoring, explore alternative water sources like treated sewage effluent, and aim for ambitious goals such as 30–50% on-site water recycling.

As the GCC's data center market is expected to double by 2030, efficient water use is no longer just an environmental goal - it’s becoming a competitive advantage. Collaboration across the region will be essential to drive this transformation.

FAQs

How do air-cooled and liquid cooling systems compare in energy efficiency and environmental impact for GCC data centres?

In GCC data centres, air-cooled and liquid cooling systems serve the same purpose but differ significantly in energy use and environmental considerations. Liquid cooling tends to be more energy-efficient because it handles heat dissipation more effectively, making it a better fit for high-performance computing setups. In fact, it can cut energy usage by as much as 30% compared to traditional air-cooled systems, which often struggle to manage the intense heat produced by modern equipment.

When it comes to environmental impact, liquid cooling has the edge. By reducing the dependence on energy-heavy air conditioning units, it not only lowers energy consumption but also improves Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) - a crucial measure of how efficiently water is utilised in cooling. This is particularly important in the GCC, where water scarcity is a pressing concern. As the region prioritises sustainability, adopting advanced cooling methods becomes essential for conserving resources while ensuring data centres operate efficiently.

What are the advantages and challenges of using Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) technology to improve Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) in GCC data centres?

Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) Technology in GCC Data Centres

Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) technology plays a crucial role in improving Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) in data centres across the GCC, a region where water scarcity is a pressing concern. ZLD systems can recover up to 95% of wastewater, making it reusable, which significantly reduces water consumption. By eliminating liquid waste discharge, these systems also help protect marine ecosystems and align with environmental goals. For operators in the Gulf who prioritise eco-friendly practices, ZLD offers a compelling way to reduce their environmental footprint.

That said, adopting ZLD technology isn't without its hurdles. The upfront costs can be steep, and the operational demands may prove challenging, especially for smaller operators. On top of that, ZLD processes tend to consume a lot of energy, which can drive up overall operating expenses. To make ZLD a worthwhile investment, data centres need to carefully evaluate the costs and benefits, ensuring the technology delivers long-term advantages while boosting their WUE.

How can GCC data centers manage the balance between water and energy efficiency in the region's challenging climate?

Data centres in the GCC region operate under challenging environmental conditions, including intense heat and scarce freshwater supplies. This makes balancing Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) and Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) essential for maintaining efficient and sustainable operations.

To tackle these hurdles, many facilities are turning to advanced cooling technologies like liquid cooling and hybrid systems. These solutions are designed to perform efficiently in hot climates, cutting down on water consumption while boosting energy efficiency - striking a balance between WUE and PUE. Another effective approach involves recycling water within cooling systems, reducing the strain on limited water resources.

In addition, methods such as adiabatic-free cooling chillers are being explored to further improve sustainability. By integrating efficient cooling systems and adopting eco-friendly practices, data centres in the GCC can enhance their operational performance while addressing the region’s environmental challenges.

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