Defending Our Energy and Water Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Scholten, Hillary J. [D-MI-3]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 30, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to reduce water consumption and enhance water resource protection in federal data center operations by updating existing efficiency mandates and extending their duration.
What it actually does
This bill mandates federal agencies to incorporate water efficiency requirements for new data centers and extends existing data center efficiency mandates. Specifically, it requires the Office of Electronic Government to revise minimum requirements for new data centers to include water resource protections, such as using water-efficient cooling systems. It also directs the Department of Defense to identify and integrate water efficiency technologies in its data centers.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is a crucial step towards sustainable federal operations, addressing the significant water footprint of data centers, especially with the increasing demand for computing power. They contend that promoting water-efficient cooling systems and technologies will conserve vital water resources, enhance operational resiliency, and set a positive example for the private sector, aligning federal practices with environmental stewardship goals.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the intent is good, mandating specific technologies or requirements could increase initial costs for federal data center upgrades or new constructions, potentially diverting funds from other critical IT infrastructure needs. They might also suggest that existing efficiency mandates are sufficient or that a more flexible approach, allowing agencies to innovate rather than prescribing specific solutions, would be more effective.
The bill is very concise and can be read and understood quickly, allowing ample time for evaluation.
Section 2(a)(1)
Mandate for Water-Efficient New Data Centers
This provision requires the Administrator of the Office of Electronic Government to update existing minimum requirements for new federal data centers within 180 days of the bill's enactment. These updated requirements must specifically include measures for protecting water resources, emphasizing the use of the most water-efficient cooling systems available.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly addresses the substantial water usage of modern data centers, ensuring that new federal infrastructure is built with sustainability in mind from the outset. They believe it will lead to significant water conservation and reduce the environmental footprint of government operations.
Critics contend
Some might contend that mandating "most water efficient" systems could be overly prescriptive or costly, potentially stifling innovation or imposing undue financial burdens on agencies, especially if cutting-edge technologies are significantly more expensive.
Tradeoffs
Balances environmental protection and water conservation against potential increases in initial construction costs and the flexibility of agencies in technology adoption.
Section 2(a)(2)
Extension of Existing Data Center Efficiency Sunset
This provision amends the Carl Levin and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 by extending the sunset date for existing minimum requirements for new data centers from "2026" to "2031." This means the current mandates for data center efficiency will remain in effect for an additional five years.
Section 2(b)
Department of Defense Water Efficiency Technology Integration
This provision amends Title 10 of the U.S. Code, which governs the Department of Defense (DoD). It adds a new requirement for DoD data centers to identify and integrate potential water efficiency technologies. The goal is to enhance the resiliency of these data centers and minimize their impact on water resources.