Thailand Sets New Environmental Rules for Data Centers Amid AI Boom

As the AI investment boom drives rapid data center expansion, Thailand has rolled out new rules on noise, heat, and water use. The cabinet has approved the regulations. Under the new rules, data center backup power systems must stay within about 70 decibels, which is closer to how human ears actually perceive sound. Temperature rises at the site boundary are capped at 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. Cooling water must be recycled, wastewater must be tested, and facilities in industrial parks face extra requirements. Thailand's finance minister said the country will enforce the highest standards, and any project failing to meet safety and environmental requirements will not be allowed to move forward. Data shows Thailand received over 50 billion US dollars in investment applications in the first nine months of this year, with AI-related projects making up about 70%. The rules aim to help Thailand benefit from AI investment growth while avoiding heavy burdens on local water, power supply, and nearby communities.