Thailand's Data Center Expansion Raises Concerns Over Water and Air Pollution
Thailand is witnessing a surge in data center projects, with over 70 planned, primarily in the Eastern Economic Corridor. Local residents express concerns about increased water competition and pollution. In 2025, the Board of Investment approved 36 projects worth $23 billion, aiming for 1 GW data center capacity by 2027. Major companies like Amazon and Google are investing heavily, exacerbating existing environmental issues. A new hyperscale facility, QHI01, developed by Bridge Data Centres, will consume significant water, raising fears among local communities about resource scarcity and pollution.
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Thailand is experiencing a significant data center boom with over 70 projects, particularly in the Eastern Economic Corridor. In 2025, the Board of Investment approved 36 projects worth approximately $23 billion, targeting 1 GW capacity by 2027.
Major firms like Amazon and Google are investing billions, raising concerns about water competition and pollution in an area already struggling with resource scarcity. The QHI01 data center, developed by Bridge Data Centres, will require 3.3 million cubic meters of water annually, equivalent to the needs of nearly 37,000 residents. Local communities fear intensified water conflicts and pollution issues as the sector expands.
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