Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage: Groundwater for Efficient Data Center Cooling in the United States

Abstract

Data centers are energy end users with the fastest growing need for electricity in the United States, mainly because of the rapid expansion of cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI). A substantial portion of this electricity, between 10% and 40%, is used for cooling. As the number of data centers increases and the sector's energy demand continues to rise exponentially, there is an urgent need to explore the use of alternative energy systems that are more efficient and sustainable. This article explores aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) as a technically feasible and currently underutilized solution for data center cooling in the United States. Previous case studies from Europe and assessments based in the United States are considered, and the potential of ATES for reducing electricity usage for data centers, which would reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable energy operations.