Amazon Seeks NPDES Permit for Data Center Water Discharge into Susquehanna River
Amazon Data Services Inc. is seeking a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to discharge non-contact cooling water from its data center into the Susquehanna River, located near the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station. While the company aims to comply with environmental regulations, critics are concerned about the potential impact of warmer water on aquatic life and public health. Amazon recently acquired the Cumulus data center for $650 million and plans to develop 15 additional data centers on nearby land.
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Amazon Data Services Inc. is applying for a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to discharge non-contact cooling water from its data center into the Susquehanna River. The data center, located near the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station nuclear power plant, utilizes significant amounts of water for cooling.
The company intends to operate within Department requirements as part of its proposed discharge program. In Pennsylvania, over 15,000 NPDES permits have been issued for water discharges. Critics express concerns about the potential environmental impact of warmer water on aquatic life and health risks. Amazon acquired the Cumulus data center for $650 million in March 2024 and plans to develop 15 data centers on 1,600 acres acquired near the power plant.
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