Microsoft data centre switches to zero-water for cooling

Microsoft is making notable strides in minimizing the environmental footprint of its data centre operations with the introduction of a cutting-edge zero-water cooling system. This innovative approach, which aims to eliminate the use of over 125 million litres of water annually per data centre, marks a major leap in sustainable technology. As data centres continue to expand to meet the growing demand for cloud services, Microsoft is leading the way in minimizing the environmental footprint of this critical infrastructure.

Launched in August, the new cooling system uses a "closed loop" mechanism that recycles water, eliminating the need for fresh water supplies. Water is initially introduced during the construction phase and then continuously circulated throughout the system, significantly reducing overall water consumption. By recycling water within the cooling loop, the technology ensures efficient reuse, keeping water usage to an absolute minimum.

In a blog post, Microsoft further elaborated on the benefits of this system, stating: "By adopting chip-level cooling solutions, we can deliver precise temperature control without the need for water evaporation. While water is still required for administrative purposes, such as restrooms and kitchens, this design will avoid the need for over 125 million litres of water annually per data centre." This new cooling approach not only saves water but also enhances the efficiency of cooling operations, helping to ensure the optimal performance of the data centres.

Microsoft has also highlighted its ongoing commitment to reducing water usage across its operations. The company reported a significant improvement in its Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE), a key metric that measures water efficiency in data centres. In the last fiscal year, Microsoft’s data centres achieved an average WUE of 0.30 L/kWh, a 39% improvement compared to 2021, when the WUE was 0.49 L/kWh. This reduction is attributed to the company's continuous efforts to minimize water waste, optimize energy efficiency, and expand the operational temperature range of its data centres.

While existing data centres will continue using a combination of air-cooled and water-cooled systems, Microsoft plans to pilot its zero-water cooling designs in new data centres in Phoenix, Arizona, and Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, by 2026. These sites will serve as testing grounds for the new technology, with the ultimate goal of integrating zero-water cooling into all future data centre projects.

Starting in August 2024, the zero-water cooling technology will be implemented in all new data centre designs, with these environmentally friendly facilities expected to be operational by late 2027. This bold initiative is a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to sustainability, demonstrating that large-scale technological advancements can be achieved in harmony with environmental responsibility. By pioneering zero-water cooling, Microsoft is setting a new industry benchmark for sustainable data centre operations.