[Objective] The spatial correlation pattern of water intensity drivers was explored to provide basis for the policy formulation of optimizing water resources allocation and for implementing the most rigorous water resources protection policy.[Methods] Taking Anhui Province as an example

the effects of different drivers on water use intensity were calculated using the complete decomposition model. And then ArcGIS-based Kriging interpolation and calorific value analysis methods were used to investigate the spatial correlation pattern and to find out the hot spots/cold spots of water use intensity.[Results] (1) From 2011 to 2014

the technical effect was valued at 94.09%

and the structural effect was 5.91%; (2) The coefficient nuggets of semi-variogram of the technical effect and structure effect were 1 and 0.843 9. The spatial autocorrelation was weak as the overall structure variance was poor

but the regional differences was obvious. (3) Hot spot plus cold spot areas of technical and structural effects of covered for 31.25% and 37.5% of the total provincial area

and moderate areas of the two effects accounted for 68.75% and 62.50%

mainly distributed in the middle and lower reaches of Wanhe River

in South Anhui

and in Bengbu City.[Conclusion] The spatial heterogeneity of drivers of water use intensity was significant. Technological innovation and structural adjustment are considered as two important ways to enhance regional water use intensity.