Data Center Boom in Chonburi Raises Concerns Over Water and Power Shortages

The boom in data center development in Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), particularly in Chonburi province, is raising new challenges regarding the strain on resources. According to reports from MGR Online (Regional), experts are sounding the alarm that this rapid development could place significant pressure on water resources and electricity supply. Data centers consume vast amounts of power and require substantial water for cooling, potentially exceeding the capacity of existing infrastructure. In response to this situation, some experts are strongly urging the Thai government to promptly implement zoning for development areas. This is deemed essential for efficiently allocating limited resources and preventing future shortages and regional friction. The EEC is a special economic zone promoted by the Thai government, established with the aim of attracting foreign investment and driving national economic growth. In recent years, it has focused on attracting data centers, driven by the increasing demand for digital infrastructure. However, the experts' current指摘 suggests that while pursuing economic growth, consideration for environmental and social sustainability may not be keeping pace. The government will face a difficult task in balancing the benefits of development with resource sustainability.