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The Journal of Engineering and Exact Sciences – jCEC, Vol. 09 N. 06 (2023)
journal homepage: https://periodicos.ufv.br/jcec
eISSN: 2527-1075
ISSN: 2446-9416
1
Impact of Data Centers on Climate Change: A Review of Energy Efficient
Strategies
Article Info:
Article history: Received 2023-08-03 / Accepted 2023-08-20 / Available online 2023-08-17
doi: 10.18540/jcecvl9iss6pp16397-01e
Daniel Raphael Ejike Ewim
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7229-8980
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Durban University of Technology, South Africa
Email: daniel.ewim@yahoo.com
Nwakamma Ninduwezuor-Ehiobu
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1735-5199
FieldCore Canada, Part of GE Vernova
E-mail: nwakamma@ge.com
Ochuko Felix Orikpete
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8020-2195
Centre for Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (COHSE), University of Port
Harcourt, Nigeria
E-mail:orikpeteochuko@gmail.com
Blessed Afeyokalo Egbokhaebho
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8598-1260
Independent Researcher, UK
Email: blessedeg@gmail.com
Akeeb Adepoju Fawole
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-2503-2912
Eko City College of Management and Technology, Nigeria
Email: keebfawii@yahoo.com
Chiemela Onunka
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5707-9368
Amazon Web Services, USA
E-mail: connadoz@gmail.com
Abstract
The rapid proliferation of digital services and the surge in cloud computing have significantly
increased the demand for data centers worldwide. As these facilities consume vast amounts of
energy, there is growing concern about their impact on the environment, particularly in relation to
climate change. This paper reviews the extent to which data centers contribute to global greenhouse
gas emissions and examines the energy efficient strategies being employed to mitigate their
environmental footprint. Key findings indicate that without intervention, data centre emissions
could rival those of major global industries. Fortunately, innovations in cooling technologies,
architectural design, renewable energy sourcing, and hardware efficiency have shown potential in
reducing energy consumption. The paper also underscores the importance of a holistic approach that
encompasses both technological advancements and policy measures for meaningful progress. In
conclusion, while data centers are indeed a source of climate concern, the ongoing advancements in
energy-efficient strategies provide a promising pathway towards a sustainable digital future.
Keywords: Data centers, Greenhouse gas emissions, Energy efficiency, Cooling technologies,
Renewable energy sourcing.
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1. Introduction
In today's digital age, where connectivity is paramount, and information is the fulcrum upon
which societies and economies pivot, data centers have emerged as the foundational pillars
supporting this immense weight of data traffic and storage (Birke et al., 2012). But what exactly are
these data centers, and why have they gained such a pivotal role in modern society?
At their core, data centers are highly specialised facilities designed to store, manage, and
disseminate vast amounts of data. These range from the simple emails sent across the globe in split
seconds, to complex financial transactions, and even the streaming of high-definition videos that
have become daily norms for countless individuals (Wilson, 2023). Their importance cannot be
understated; data centers are akin to the beating heart of the global digital network. Without them,
many of the technological conveniences that have become so seamlessly integrated into our daily
lives would cease to function (Guo et al., 2021; Liu et al., 2020).
In essence, these centers have played an instrumental role in the digital transformation
witnessed over the last few decades (Cadence Design Systems Inc., 2023). The ubiquity of internet-
connected devices, the rise of cloud computing, the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence, and
the increasing reliance on big data analytics—all of these are tethered to the capabilities of modern
data centers (Hashem et al., 2015; Matsveichuk & Sotskov, 2023). Such developments have not
only driven technological advancements but have also facilitated the globalization of economies and
the democratization of information (Skare & Soriano, 2021).
Yet, with great power comes great responsibility. As our reliance on these digital hubs has
intensified, so has their energy consumption. These colossal facilities, brimming with servers and
infrastructure, demand continuous power to function, leading to significant energy use (Townend et
al., 2019). According to Briscar (2017), data centers' vast power consumption annually equates to
the energy output of thirty-four coal power stations or what's needed to electrify all New York City
homes for two years. Based on findings by Katal et al. (2023), power usage in data centers is
projected to increase from 200 TWh in 2016 to nearly 2967 TWh by 2030. Cooling systems, in
particular, are a key component, ensuring that servers and other critical equipment remain at optimal
temperatures to prevent overheating and subsequent failures (Park & Seo, 2018). This unceasing
demand for energy, often sourced from non-renewable resources, has led to increasing carbon
footprints and a tangible environmental impact (Manganelli et al., 2021).
Moreover, the urgency surrounding climate change and global warming has become one of
the defining challenges of our era. As temperatures rise, seas encroach, and weather patterns become
increasingly erratic, the clamour for sustainable practices and green solutions across all sectors is
amplifying (He et al., 2022; Miller et al., 2021). Consequently, the environmental footprint of data
centers has garnered significant attention from environmentalists, policymakers, and industry
stakeholders alike (Semenov & Oganesyan, 2021). This concern is well-founded: recent estimates
have posited that if left unchecked, the carbon emissions from data centers could rival those of
sizeable nations or even major global industries (Guitart, 2017).
It is within this context that the present study finds its grounding. The aim of this study is to
dissect the multifaceted relationship between data centers and climate change, with particular
emphasis on energy-efficient strategies. By doing so, it seeks not only to shed light on the gravity
of the issue but also to present viable solutions and pathways that can harmonise the digital
expansion with sustainable environmental practices.
2. Data Centers and Their Energy Consumption
2.1. Evolution of Data Centers Over the Years
The genesis of data centers can be traced back to the earliest days of computing, when room-
sized machines, known as mainframes, were the pride of academic institutions and large
corporations. These early mainframes required specialised environments to maintain their
operational integrity—thus, the conceptual foundation of data centers was laid (Nataraj, 2022).
However, these archaic models are hardly comparable to the colossal infrastructures we see today.
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During the 1980s and early 1990s, the shift from mainframes to client-server models catalysed the
evolution of data centers. With the advent of personal computing, businesses began to demand
decentralised systems, and the data centre landscape metamorphosed to accommodate racks of
servers. This period also marked a significant upsurge in the size of these facilities. The role of data
centers expanded from mere storage solutions to becoming the nexus of business operations, playing
a pivotal role in business continuity and disaster recovery (Beatrice, 2020).
The onset of the 21st century heralded the age of the internet. As e-commerce, online services,
and digital communications became ubiquitous, the demand for scalable and efficient data centers
skyrocketed. This was the era of the 'dot-com' boom, and it prompted a building frenzy. Data centers
were no longer the backdrop; they became integral to the very fabric of global commerce and
communication (International Energy Agency, 2023).
The most recent phase in the evolution has been driven by the proliferation of cloud
computing, Big Data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) (Khanna & Kaur, 2019). Modern data centers
are now hyper-scale, cloud-integrated, and strategically positioned to serve global audiences (Data
Center Frontier, 2019). Companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft have established data
centers that sprawl over acres, housing hundreds of thousands of servers, storage devices, and
network equipment (Swinhoe, 2021a). Such expansive setups cater to billions of users, processing
exabytes of data daily (Ahmed et al., 2021).
2.2. Overview of Data Centers Energy Consumption Patterns
Energy consumption in data centers is a multifaceted concern, with several components
contributing to the overall power demands. First and foremost are the servers themselves, which are
the workhorses of these centers. Servers continuously run applications, process data, and manage
traffic. Consequently, they require consistent power input, not just for processing but also for
cooling, given the heat they generate (Ahmed et al., 2021; Katal et al., 2023). Cooling systems, in
many respects, are the unsung heroes of data centers. To maintain the optimal operational
temperature and ensure hardware longevity, sophisticated cooling mechanisms have been devised.
These range from simple HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems in older
setups to advanced liquid cooling and free-cooling solutions in modern facilities. Regardless of the
type, these cooling solutions are energy-intensive (Miller, 2022).
The power infrastructure supporting the servers and cooling systems, such as UPS
(Uninterrupted Power Supplies), PDUs (Power Distribution Units), and the vast array of network
equipment, further adds to the energy demands. Redundancy is also a key element in data centers.
To ensure uninterrupted services, data centers deploy backup systems. These redundancies, while
critical for operational stability, contribute to the overall energy consumption (Hussein et al., 2023).
It's also worth noting the "always on" nature of data centers. Unlike many other facilities which can
power down during non-peak hours, data centers need to remain operational 24/7. This continuous
operation invariably leads to a high, and often, constant energy consumption pattern (Briscar, 2017).
2.3. Relation to Global Energy Usage
To comprehend the magnitude of energy consumption by data centers, it's essential to position
it within the broader context of global energy usage. Studies have shown that the global energy
consumption of data centers has been on an upward trajectory, especially with the digital boom of
the 21st century (Kirvan, 2022).
A report from the International Energy Agency (2023) posited that data centers globally
consumed about 1-1.5% of the world's electricity. While this may seem minuscule at first glance,
when you consider the enormity of global energy consumption, this figure is significant.
Furthermore, as our reliance on digital services grows, and as more devices become interconnected,
the demand on data centers and, consequently, their energy consumption is expected to rise (Morley
et al., 2018). This is further compounded by the fact that a large portion of this energy still comes
from non-renewable sources. Despite commendable strides in the adoption of renewable energy
within the sector, the transition is gradual, and a significant carbon footprint remains (Gielen et al.,
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2019). In regions where coal remains the dominant source of electricity, the environmental
ramifications of data centre operations are even more pronounced. The carbon emissions from such
data centers are disproportionately higher than those powered by cleaner energy sources
(Greenpeace International, 2011). Consequently, while the global energy percentage might be in the
single digits, the contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is a cause for concern.
To encapsulate the key points discussed, the nexus between data centers and energy
consumption is both intricate and profound. From their humble origins as mainframe housing units
to the digital powerhouses they are today, data centers have come a long way. However, as their
capacities and capabilities have burgeoned, so have their energy demands. This heightened energy
consumption, especially when viewed in the context of global usage and the pressing imperatives
of climate change, underscores the urgent need for sustainable strategies and solutions in data centre
operations. The upcoming sections will delve deeper into these challenges and the innovative
approaches to addressing them.
3. A Deeper Look at the Environmental Footprint of Data Centers
The ascendancy of data centers as indispensable infrastructural entities within the digital
ecosystem is undeniable. As these centers proliferate in number and grow in size, their
environmental impact has simultaneously surged, positioning them prominently within the global
discourse on sustainability. A holistic understanding of their environmental footprint necessitates a
dive into both the direct and indirect emissions associated with their operations.
3.1. Direct Emissions: Data Centre Equipment and Operations
Direct emissions, as the name suggests, encompass greenhouse gases (GHGs) and pollutants
directly discharged from data centre operations (Bengaouer, 2023). The primary culprits behind
these emissions are the equipment and hardware components that comprise the heart and soul of
these centers.
Servers are the primary powerhouses within data centers. They process vast amounts of data,
ensuring that our emails, cloud applications, online games, and myriad other digital services
function seamlessly. Their constant activity means they're persistently consuming electricity, and
this continuous energy draw is a direct contributor to carbon emissions, especially if the electricity
source is fossil fuel-based (Bashroush et al., 2020).
Cooling Systems further compound the issue of direct emissions. Traditional HVAC systems
and even some advanced cooling techniques employ refrigerants and coolants that, if leaked, can
have a far more significant greenhouse effect than even CO2. While these emissions might be less
frequent than CO2 discharges, the high Global Warming Potential (GWP) of certain refrigerants
means they have a disproportionate impact on the environment (Calm, 2002; Roy & Halder, 2020).
Backup Generators are integral to the operational reliability of data centers. These generators,
which run on diesel, produce direct emissions when activated during power outages or during
routine tests. Though their operational hours might be limited compared to primary equipment, the
combustion of diesel fuel results in a significant release of GHGs (Nelson, 2022).
3.2. Indirect Emissions: Source of Energy, Construction, and Other Contributors
While direct emissions provide an immediate insight into the environmental ramifications of
data centre operations, the indirect emissions—often less visible but no less significant—paint a
more comprehensive picture.
Energy Source: Perhaps the most substantial contributor to indirect emissions is the source of
electricity that powers the data centers. While some modern facilities boast of green energy
credentials, a significant portion of data centers worldwide still rely on electricity derived from fossil
fuels, predominantly coal and natural gas (Craighill, 2019). The combustion of these fuels at power
plants results in vast quantities of GHGs, primarily CO2. When this energy is channelled to power
data centers, the carbon footprint of each digital transaction, no matter how minor, becomes
intrinsically linked to these emissions.
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Construction and Infrastructure: The very act of building a data centre has its environmental
costs. From the extraction and processing of raw materials to the construction activities on-site,
every step carries with it a carbon cost. Concrete, metals, and other construction materials have
energy-intensive production processes, and their transportation further adds to the GHG emissions
(Swinhoe, 2021b).
Supply Chain Emissions: The lifecycle of a server or any piece of data centre equipment
doesn't start at the data centre. It begins with the mining of minerals, the production of components,
and the assembly of the final product. Each stage of this supply chain produces emissions, and when
aggregated, they form a significant portion of the indirect emissions associated with data centre
operations (Innovation Norway, 2023).
3.3. Comparison with Other Major Industries
To contextualize the environmental footprint of data centers, juxtaposing them against other
industries is enlightening. The aviation industry, for instance, has been frequently spotlighted for its
carbon emissions, contributing around 2.4% of global annual GHG emissions (Klöwer et al., 2021).
On the surface, data centers, which, as previously noted, consume roughly 1-1.5% of global
electricity, might seem less impactful. However, when one considers the full spectrum of both direct
and indirect emissions from data centers, their environmental footprint starts to inch closer to or
probably exceed that of the aviation sector as shown in Fig. 1. In fact, Kilgore (2023) pointed out
that "Data centers account for 2.5% to 3.7% of global GHG emissions," which exceeds the GHG
emissions from the aviation industry recorded at 2.4% (see Fig. 1).
Fig. 1. Global annual GHG emissions from major industries (Source: Kilgore, 2023)
The automotive industry, especially the internal combustion engine vehicles, is another
significant contributor to global emissions. While advancements in electric vehicles are promising,
the sheer volume of traditional vehicles on roads worldwide ensures that this industry remains a
considerable emitter (Zhang et al., 2023). Compared to this, data centers, in their current state, might
have a lower emission profile, but the trajectory of growth in digital services suggests that without
intervention, data centers could rival, or even surpass, the automotive industry's emissions in the
coming decades.
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Agriculture, primarily livestock farming, is another industry with significant GHG emissions,
particularly methane (Lynch et al., 2021). While the nature of emissions differs between livestock
farming and data centers, the overarching environmental implications draw alarming parallels.
In essence, while data centers might not currently be the leading contributors to global emissions,
their growth rate, combined with the increasing digitalisation of services, places them firmly in the
spotlight. As other industries pivot towards more sustainable practices, the IT sector and associated
data centre operations cannot afford complacency.
Recapping the main themes of this section, the environmental footprint of data centers is a
mosaic of direct and indirect emissions, each with its unique challenges and solutions. While the
direct emissions from equipment and operations are more tangible and immediately addressable, the
indirect emissions necessitate a broader, systemic approach that encompasses energy sourcing,
supply chain management, and infrastructural development. Compared to other major industries,
data centers are fast becoming significant contributors to global GHG emissions, underscoring the
urgent need for sustainable strategies. As the subsequent sections will elucidate, achieving this
sustainability demands both innovative technological solutions and robust policy measures. The
nexus between data centers and the environment is intricate, but with concerted efforts, a
harmonious balance is attainable.
4. Energy Efficient Strategies: An Overview
The intersection of technology and environment in the context of data centers has emerged as
a focal point of discussions around sustainable development. As the environmental footprint of data
centers becomes increasingly discernible, the demand for innovative energy-efficient strategies
intensifies. Central to this narrative is the recognition that while data centers are energy-intensive
by nature, the manner in which this energy is sourced, utilised, and managed can drastically alter
their environmental impact. This section delves into the myriad strategies adopted and proposed to
enhance the energy efficiency of data centers, laying a foundation for a sustainable digital future.
Before diving into the specifics, it's pivotal to understand the overarching role of efficiency in the
broader spectrum of climate change mitigation. Efficiency is not merely about reducing
consumption; it encapsulates optimising resource use to deliver the same, or better, outcomes with
fewer inputs. In the context of data centers, efficiency strategies aim to maintain (or enhance)
computational output while diminishing the energy input and associated emissions. Such
optimisation becomes a cornerstone for sustainability, ensuring that as digitalisation expands, its
environmental cost does not escalate proportionally.
4.1. Cooling Technologies
Traditional vs. Innovative Cooling Solutions:
Historically, data centers have relied heavily on traditional HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and
Air Conditioning) systems. These systems, while effective in maintaining desired temperatures, are
notorious for their energy consumption. The primary reason is their reliance on mechanical cooling,
which uses compressors and refrigerants to achieve cooling, often consuming as much energy as the
servers themselves (Enteria et al., 2020).
In contrast, innovative cooling solutions aim to reduce or eliminate mechanical cooling.
Techniques such as free cooling utilise ambient air or water to cool the data centre, eschewing the
need for energy-intensive mechanisms. Liquid cooling, where servers are immersed in non-
conductive fluids, offers another frontier, enabling direct heat removal and reducing the need for
extensive air cooling (Mulay, 2018).
Case Studies of Successful Cooling Strategies:
• Google's DeepMind AI Solution: Google, with its extensive network of data centers,
deployed its DeepMind AI to optimise cooling. The AI system analysed data from sensors
and made real-time decisions on cooling configurations. The result? A whopping 40%
reduction in cooling-related energy consumption (Google DeepMind, 2016).
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• Facebook's Swedish Data Centre: Located in Luleå, Sweden, this data centre capitalises
on its Arctic location by employing free cooling. The cold external air is used to cool the
servers, while any excess heat generated is repurposed to warm office spaces. This approach
has drastically curtailed the need for mechanical cooling (Harding, 2015).
4.2. Architectural Design Improvements
Building Designs that Reduce Energy Needs:
The architectural footprint of a data centre can play an instrumental role in its energy demands.
Designs that emphasise natural ventilation, incorporate thermally conducive materials, and optimise
server layouts can reduce the need for artificial cooling. Roofs painted with reflective coatings,
green roofs with vegetation, and the inclusion of thermal buffers (like double-wall constructions)
are architectural nuances that can collectively make a data centre inherently more energy-efficient
(Bielek, B., & Bielek, 2012).
Innovative Layout Strategies:
Hot/cold aisle containment is a strategy where server racks are aligned in a manner that
consolidates hot exhausts in one direction and cold intakes in another. This segregation ensures that
servers are not inadvertently recirculating hot air, making cooling more effective and energy-
efficient (Kirvan, 2023).
Vertical server stacking, as opposed to the traditional horizontal alignment, is another strategy
being explored. This configuration, coupled with strategic vent placements, can harness the natural
physics of heat rising to aid in cooling (Zhang et al., 2022).
4.3. Renewable Energy Sourcing
Shifts in Energy Sources for Data Centers:
While efficiency strategies aim to reduce energy consumption, the source of that energy
remains a critical consideration. Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable sources can drastically
cut the carbon footprint of data centers (Holechek et al., 2022).
Integration of Solar, Wind, and Other Renewable Energies:
Major tech giants, cognisant of their environmental responsibilities, have begun to integrate
renewable energy sources into their data centre operations.
• Apple's Commitment to Clean Energy: Apple announced that all of its global facilities,
including data centers, are powered by 100% renewable energy. Their data centers have been
operating on clean energy since 2014, leveraging solar, wind, and other renewable sources
(Apple Inc., 2018).
• Amazon Web Services (AWS) Wind Farms: AWS has initiated several large-scale
renewable energy projects, including wind farms, to offset the energy consumption of its
vast network of data centers (Yan, 2023).
4.4. Hardware Efficiency
Technological Advancements in Server Design:
Server technology has been on a relentless path of evolution, aiming not just for better
performance but also for enhanced energy efficiency. Newer servers often provide more
computational power per watt, reducing overall energy needs. Moreover, the transition to solid-state
drives (SSDs) from traditional hard drives, and the adoption of energy-efficient processors, has
further streamlined energy consumption (D’Agostino et al., 2021; Fagen Wasanni Technologies,
2023).
Reduction of Redundant Hardware Operations:
Virtualisation is a technique that allows a single physical server to operate as multiple virtual
servers. This optimisation reduces the need for multiple physical servers, thereby cutting energy
consumption. Additionally, techniques like de-duplication, where redundant data is identified and
stored only once, optimise storage, and reduce energy needs (Shamir, 2021).
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Reflecting on the key insights from this section, the dialogue surrounding the energy
efficiency of data centers, and their associated environmental impact, is not one of contention but
of innovation. As this section elucidates, strategies spanning cooling techniques, architectural
design, energy sourcing, and hardware efficiency converge to shape a roadmap for sustainable data
centre operations. As digitalisation continues its inexorable march forward, integrating these
strategies is not just preferable—it's imperative. Ensuring that data centers, the linchpins of our
digital age, evolve in tandem with our sustainability goals will be central to forging a future where
technology and environment harmoniously coexist.
5. Policy Measures, Their Role, and Case Studies
The juxtaposition of data centers and their environmental footprint is no longer a domain
exclusive to technologists and environmentalists; it has permeated the realm of governance, eliciting
responses at various scales—global, national, and local. Policy measures and governance structures
play a pivotal role in guiding, incentivising, and sometimes mandating the trajectory of energy
efficiency within the data centre industry. This section explores the landscape of policy
interventions, their significance, and delves into real-world case studies to elucidate the confluence
of governance and best practices in shaping a sustainable digital infrastructure.
5.1. Importance of Governance in Driving Efficiency
Governance, in its essence, provides a framework within which industries operate. For sectors
like data centers, which lie at the intersection of rapid technological advancements and mounting
environmental concerns, governance can offer direction, set standards, and instil accountability.
Effective policies can drive innovation by setting ambitious energy efficiency targets, offering
incentives for renewable energy adoption, and establishing benchmarks against which data centre
operations can be measured and optimised (Sebastian-Coleman, 2022).
At the global level, organisations such as the United Nations and International Energy Agency
have underscored the significance of energy efficiency in data centers, often integrating them into
broader discussions on sustainable technological advancements (International Energy Agency,
2023; United Nations, 2021).
Nationally, countries have begun tailoring their energy policies to accommodate the unique
challenges and opportunities presented by data centers. For instance, the United States' emphasis on
its ENERGY STAR certification for data centers is a testament to national tailoring. This
programme, beyond just recognising energy-efficient behaviours, provides tools and resources,
helping operators gauge their performance and drive improvements (U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, 2023). Similarly, the European Union's meticulous integration of data centers into its Green
Digital agenda underlines a harmonisation of technological aspirations with environmental
prudence (EU Science Hub, 2022).
At a local level, city or state policies often address the micro-level nuances of data centre
operations, from land usage and construction norms to incentivising local renewable energy
integration.
5.2. Case Studies: Examples of Data Centers Leading in Energy Efficiency
5.2.1. Microsoft’s Underwater Data Centre (Project Natick): Recognising the energy-intensive
nature of cooling in traditional data centers, Microsoft embarked on an innovative
endeavour: placing a data centre underwater. Project Natick, as it was named, utilised the
consistently cool temperatures of the ocean to aid in cooling, negating the need for traditional
energy-intensive cooling solutions. Beyond its cooling efficiency, the project aimed to
explore the sustainability of submerged data centers, which, if scalable, could reshape the
energy dynamics of the industry (Alghamdi et al., 2023; Roach, 2020; Sutherland & Bopp,
2023).
5.2.2. Google's Zero Carbon Data Centre in Finland: Google's data centre in Hamina, Finland,
is a testament to the synergy of innovative design and favourable geography. The centre uses
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seawater from the Bay of Finland for its cooling needs, drastically reducing the energy
requirements traditionally associated with cooling. Moreover, Google has complemented
this design advantage by sourcing renewable energy to power the facility, thereby achieving
a near-zero carbon footprint (Wang et al., 2022; WILO SE, 2023).
5.2.3. The Green Mountain Data Centre in Norway: Nestled inside a mountain in Stavanger,
Norway, this data centre utilises cold water from a nearby fjord for cooling. The underground
location offers natural insulation, and its electricity needs are met entirely by renewable
hydropower. It's an epitome of how geography, design, and renewable energy can coalesce
to create one of the world's greenest data centers (Business Norway, 2023).
5.3. Lessons Learned and Practices Adopted
The aforementioned case studies, while diverse in their approaches, offer a tapestry of lessons:
• Innovation in Cooling: Whether it's leveraging the cold waters of the Bay of Finland or the
ambient temperatures of the ocean depths, it's clear that cooling remains a primary domain
for energy optimisation. Future endeavours must explore such innovative, and often
location-specific, cooling solutions.
• Integration of Renewables: Beyond efficiency measures, the source of energy remains
pivotal. Transitioning to renewable sources, as showcased by Google and Green Mountain,
can drastically reduce the carbon footprint.
• Holistic Design: Energy efficiency in data centers isn't just about advanced hardware or
innovative cooling; it's about a holistic design approach that considers geography,
architecture, and energy sources collectively.
We have seen that governance, with its policy measures and guidelines, offers a beacon for data
centers navigating the complex waters of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. While
individual enterprises like Microsoft, Google, and Green Mountain have showcased what's
achievable with innovation and commitment, the role of policy in scaling these best practices
industry-wide cannot be understated. As data centers continue to underpin the digital age, a marriage
of policy, innovation, and best practices will be quintessential in steering their evolution towards a
sustainable future.
6. Future Projections and Recommendations
The digital age has witnessed an unprecedented growth of data, and consequentially, the
infrastructure that stores, manages, and processes it. Data centers, the nerve centers of our
interconnected world, have rapidly evolved in both scale and complexity. As we anticipate the
future, the trajectories of technological advancements, energy demands, and sustainability goals will
inevitably intersect, presenting both challenges and opportunities for stakeholders. This section aims
to project future trends in data centre growth and their associated energy needs, culminating in a
series of recommendations to pave the way for a sustainable digital future.
6.1. Predictions about Data Centre Growth
6.1.1. The Onset of Exponential Data Growth: With the proliferation of the Internet of Things
(IoT), the rise of artificial intelligence, and the deepening penetration of internet services globally,
the amount of data generated will see exponential growth. As per some estimates, by the end of this
decade, global data generation could be tenfold of what it was at the start (Daniel, 2019). This deluge
of data necessitates robust data centre infrastructure.
6.1.2. Distributed and Edge Computing: As real-time data processing becomes paramount—
especially with technologies such as autonomous vehicles, augmented reality, and real-time AI
analytics—the traditional centralised data centre model will see a complement (or even a partial
shift) towards distributed and edge computing. This means a potential rise in smaller, localised data
centers that process data closer to the source, reducing latency (Bellavista et al., 2020; Dai et al.,
2023).
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6.1.3. Quantum Computing and its Implications: Quantum computing, still in its nascent stages,
promises computational capabilities beyond the current paradigms. As it matures, data centers will
need to adapt, not only in terms of hardware but also in cooling and energy requirements, given the
unique operational prerequisites of quantum machines (Ferrari et al., 2021; Gamble, 2019; Khan,
2021).
6.2. Associated Energy Needs of the Future
6.2.1. Rising Energy Consumption: Given the anticipated data centre growth, it’s plausible to
predict a significant uptick in energy consumption. As newer technologies get integrated and
computational demands rise, the energy matrix of data centers will need to adapt.
6.2.2. Cooling: The Ever-Persistent Challenge: As computational demands increase, so will the
heat generated. The future may see data centers consuming a larger portion of their energy solely
for cooling purposes, pushing the envelope for innovative cooling solutions.
6.2.3. Decentralised Energy Grids: With the rise of distributed and edge computing, the traditional
energy grid model may see disruptions. Data centers of the future might increasingly rely on local,
decentralised energy sources, intertwining their operational efficiency with the efficiency and
reliability of local energy grids.
6.3. Recommendations for Stakeholders to Ensure Sustainability
6.3.1. Embrace Holistic Design Principles: The design of future data centers should not only focus
on computational efficiency but should also integrate energy efficiency, cooling solutions, and
renewable energy sources. A holistic approach, considering all these elements from the inception
phase, can drive both operational and environmental sustainability.
6.3.2. Invest in R&D for Cooling Technologies: Given the anticipated challenges in cooling,
stakeholders—both from the industry and academia—should deepen their investments in
researching and developing innovative cooling solutions. Whether it's leveraging geothermal
energy, experimenting with phase-change materials, or pioneering new architectural designs, the
domain of cooling is ripe for innovation.
6.3.3. Strengthen Collaborative Frameworks: The challenges of the future aren’t just
technological but also systemic. Data centre operators, technology providers, energy suppliers, and
policy-makers need to foster deeper collaboration. Such a collective approach can facilitate the
sharing of best practices, harmonisation of standards, and the formulation of forward-looking
policies.
6.3.4. Prioritise Renewable Energy Integration: The environmental footprint of data centers can
be significantly mitigated by a decisive shift towards renewable energy. Whether it’s through on-
site renewable energy generation (like solar or wind farms) or through power purchase agreements
with renewable energy providers, integrating green energy sources should be paramount.
6.3.5. Advocate for Robust Governance and Policies: Industry stakeholders should actively
engage with policy-makers, ensuring that governance structures are both robust and agile. Policies
that incentivise renewable energy adoption, R&D in energy efficiency, and the establishment of
sustainability benchmarks can drive the industry towards a greener trajectory.
Peering into the future, it's evident that data centers will remain pivotal in the digital fabric of our
society. Their growth, while promising unprecedented computational capabilities, also poses
challenges, particularly in the realms of energy consumption and environmental sustainability.
However, with proactive measures, collaborative endeavours, and a commitment to innovation,
stakeholders can ensure that the digital revolution aligns harmoniously with the principles of
sustainability. The path forward, though fraught with challenges, also offers an opportunity—a
chance to redefine how our digital aspirations coexist with our environmental stewardship.
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11
7. Conclusion
The rapid digitalisation of the modern world, while bringing about transformative socio-
economic advancements, has concurrently foregrounded the centrality of data centers in this digital
epoch. From humble origins as rudimentary storage facilities to their current status as the lifeblood
of the Internet and the Cloud, data centers have undeniably become foundational pillars supporting
our digital lives. Yet, the growing intricacy of this narrative is intertwined with their energy
footprints and subsequent impacts on climate change.
Throughout this discourse, we have traversed the multifaceted realm of data centers, delving
deep into their evolution, their undeniable energy appetites, and the corresponding environmental
footprints they etch on our planet. As data centers burgeon, so does the imperative to comprehend
and address the consequences of their expansion. Equipped with the knowledge of their past and
present, we also ventured into the future, charting anticipated trajectories, and arming stakeholders
with recommendations to reconcile rapid technological progression with environmental
conscientiousness. The narrative underscores a pivotal theme: adaptability. Data centers of the past
were not designed with the environmental imperatives we face today. However, the challenges and
imperatives of the contemporary era have stimulated an array of innovations, from cutting-edge
cooling technologies to architectural marvels harmonising with nature. These transformations are
not just a testament to human ingenuity but also to the collective will to harmonise progress with
the planet. Equally salient is the role of governance. In a domain as dynamic and vital as data centers,
the interplay between industry practices and policy measures is shaping the roadmap to
sustainability. From global dialogues under the aegis of international bodies to grassroots
regulations tailored to local nuances, governance emerges as both a guide and a guardian, ensuring
that the digital aspirations of humanity are pursued with a keen sense of stewardship towards the
Earth. Yet, as with any journey, while the milestones reached are worthy of reflection, the road
ahead beckons with both challenges and opportunities. The recommendations proffered, grounded
in current insights, seek to illuminate this path, ensuring that the growth of data centers, in scale and
sophistication, is harmonised with a sense of environmental responsibility.
In encapsulation, the story of data centers and their relationship with our climate is an ongoing
saga of evolution, reflection, innovation, and adaptation. As we navigate the complexities of the
21st century, it is our collective endeavour to ensure that the keystones of our digital age, the data
centers, evolve not as mere repositories of data but as symbols of sustainable progress, holding
within their confines a promise of a brighter, greener future for all.
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