NJ A3966

Requires the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to conduct an evaluation of water use by large-scale data centers within one year, examining impacts on drinking water systems, wastewater systems, and the environment

Study must analyze short-term effects (preceding 3 years), long-term effects (preceding 7 years), and anticipated effects from future data center construction

DEP may require data center owners, public water systems, and wastewater utilities to submit water usage information including monthly/annual consumption, peak demand, water sources, cooling methods, and conservation practices

Evaluation must assess costs to ratepayers, impacts on public water infrastructure, and identify feasible water reduction strategies that data centers could implement

DEP must submit a written report with findings and potential legislative recommendations to the Governor and Legislature within 15 months of the act's effective date