Madrid government defends data centers against water scarcity claims

The Community of Madrid government has rejected claims that the expansion of data centers threatens the region's water reserves. During a visit to the El Atazar reservoir, the Counselor of Digitalization, Miguel López-Valverde, stated that claiming these facilities will deplete Madrid's water is a “technically false generalization.”

López-Valverde emphasized that new-generation data centers utilize advanced cooling technologies, such as closed-circuit systems, which have reduced water intensity by up to 90% compared to older models. He noted that some modern facilities can even operate without water by using alternative refrigerants.

Madrid currently operates 40 data centers with another 15 under construction. The regional government asserts that the area is a leading hub for digital infrastructure, growing faster than other major European centers like Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, or Paris, while maintaining a focus on sustainability and efficiency.