A new report reveals that data centers in California are expanding into water-stressed regions without public disclosure of their water use, despite state laws. - Data center operators avoid reporting water use due to policy loopholes.
- Expansion is moving to vulnerable areas like the Central and Imperial Valleys. - Governor Newsom vetoed a 2025 disclosure bill; new legislation is proposed.
- Local communities are pushing back against projects with inadequate information. The lack of transparency hinders public discussion and responsible planning, as experts warn that local impacts matter more than statewide averages.