Rep. Obernolte Unveils Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Leadership in AI Infrastructure
This week, Representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Representative Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) introduced the Liquid Cooling for AI Act, legislation designed to ensure the United States takes the lead in advancing next generation infrastructure for artificial intelligence. The bill directs a comprehensive technology assessment exploring the use of liquid cooling technologies in U.S. data centers and how they can advance AI computing abilities. Additionally, it calls for the development of government-wide best practices that will not only guide federal use of liquid cooling technologies and methods to enhance the security and reliability of data centers but also establish standards that accelerate adoption of liquid cooling systems across both public and private AI facilities.
“As AI systems grow more powerful, the infrastructure required to support them must evolve just as quickly,” said Rep. Obernolte. “Liquid cooling is a critical innovation that will reduce energy use, improve efficiency, and ensure the United States remains at the forefront of AI development. By driving federal adoption, we can set the pace for the private sector and create a unified approach that strengthens America’s AI ecosystem.”
“Data centers are critical parts of our AI infrastructure, but they can require a lot of energy — contributing to rising utility costs for families. That’s why I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan Liquid Cooling for AI Act to put in place a clear strategy that will support new technologies, make our data centers more efficient, and help bring costs back down,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “With this legislation, we won’t have to choose between innovation and affordability. Together we will help ensure that the United States continues to lead the world in AI innovation, while keeping more money in the pocketbooks of hardworking families.”
Data centers are projected to consume up to 580 TWh of total electricity in the U.S. by 2028, up from 176 TWh in 2023. That amount is roughly equal to the total electricity consumption of the entire U.S. residential lighting and appliances sectors combined. The Liquid Cooling for AI Act of 2025 would deliver benefits for all Americans by keeping America competitive in the global AI race, reducing pressure on utilities and electricity customers, promoting heat reuse and energy efficiency in data centers, and leveraging market-driven technologies to boost U.S. computing capacity.
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