OK, can we actually cool data centers with our pee?

The article uses Jason Kelce’s joke about cooling data centers with pee to explore a serious issue: data centers consume large amounts of potable water for cooling. While urine itself is not a practical direct coolant, the broader idea of using wastewater or other non-drinking water sources is technically plausible.

As AI infrastructure expands, water use is becoming a bigger constraint for data center growth. Expect more operators to explore non-potable cooling systems, recycled water, and alternative thermal management as communities scrutinize the environmental tradeoffs of digital infrastructure.