Written Question·Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs·UIN 17929

Water: Data Centres

Tabled: 10 July 2026

Answered: 15 July 2026

Question

James McMurdock

Independent — South Basildon and East Thurrock

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of proposed data centre developments on local water resources in areas experiencing water stress.

Answer

Emma Hardy

Water companies do not have to supply water to cool data centres. Data centres may be refused a supply connection if there are not sufficient water resources available. Government encourages developers to consider use of non-potable water, to embed water ...

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