Data4 estimates, for example 24, that for a data center in France with a total area of 4,278 m², an IT power capacity of 5 MW, and a structure “comprising nearly 5,200 m³ of concrete and 500 metric tons of steel, and 3,868 m² of insulation and 5,880 m² of waterproofed roofs,” that 35% of total water consumption over its entire life cycle (20 years) stems from the manufacturing of equipment and materials. Their study also points out that 38.8% of total water consumption is attributable to the building itself, of which approximately 81% is related to the load-bearing structure (steel and concrete).

Fabs in regions with high water scarcity, such as Taiwan, emphasise water reuse and recycling, achieving rates of around 80%, while those in Europe typically have lower recycling rates (10%–14%).