February 25, 2026
Report

Synergistic Pathways for Water Security in Emerging Sectors: Data Centers and Modern Nuclear Facilities

Abstract

Stand-alone data centers, nuclear-powered data centers, and novel nuclear facilities such as fusion plant and small modular reactors (SMRs) are rapidly expanding, water-intensive sectors that present a significant challenge to the water-for-energy nexus. Their large-scale consumption of water for cooling systems not only reduces downstream water quantity but also degrades quality, demanding an integrated approach by stakeholders to understand and address these impacts through infrastructure planning and development.

Published: February 25, 2026

Citation

Catalano A.J., Z. Duan, A.C. Quimby, T. Wang, C.M. Chini, L. Premathilake, and T.N. McPherson, et al. 2026. Synergistic Pathways for Water Security in Emerging Sectors: Data Centers and Modern Nuclear Facilities Richland, WA: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.