California's data-center boom leaves water use in the dark

New research shows California’s data centers are expanding into water-stressed regions while public data on their water use remains scarce due to reporting gaps and narrow environmental reviews. Planning documents often lack clear details about water consumption, and water providers rarely disclose usage. Lawmakers are reintroducing bills to require disclosure to water suppliers and local governments, but face industry opposition. Experts say transparent measurement is essential as the industry grows and competes for limited water resources.