In today’s digital age, data centres are the backbone of our internet-driven world. These facilities manage vast amounts of data and are facing growing environmental concerns.
According to BIS Research, the global market for data center refrigerants is projected to increase from $471.2 million in 2022 to $1,215.1 million by 2032, with an annual growth rate of 8.59% over the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. —driven by cloud computing, IoT, and big data analytics—the focus on improving energy efficiency and sustainability is more crucial than ever.
Edge computing decentralizes data processing by moving it closer to the source, reducing dependence on large, energy-intensive data centres. This approach establishes smaller, strategically placed data centres to enhance performance and lower latency while minimizing environmental impact.
As data centres grow and support emerging technologies like AI, virtual reality, and 5G, they face increasing pressure to adhere to environmental regulations. Regulations worldwide, such as the EU's phase-out of high-GWP refrigerants (like HFCs), aim to reduce carbon emissions. The shift to more energy-efficient cooling technologies is crucial, given the anticipated 150-170% increase in network energy consumption by 2026.
Data centres like Norway’s Green Mountain, which operates on hydropower and uses advanced thermal management from Vertiv, are leading the way. Vertiv's latest innovation, the Liebert® AFC chiller, uses low-GWP refrigerants and advanced technologies for superior energy efficiency.
Historically, data centres have been significant consumers of electricity and major contributors to carbon emissions. In response to escalating climate change concerns, there is an urgent need for more sustainable data centres. The industry is increasingly adopting renewable energy sources and innovative cooling technologies to address these issues.
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Ice storage technology represents a significant leap forward in energy efficiency. This system involves producing and storing ice during off-peak hours, usually at night when electricity costs are lower. The stored ice is then used for cooling during peak demand periods, reducing the need for energy-intensive cooling systems.
Additionally, ice storage technology offers a versatile solution during electricity shortages. It allows for pre-cooling during times of low demand, reducing electricity needs when demand spikes. It also ensures continued cooling during power outages, protecting temperature-sensitive environments.
Data centres are increasingly pursuing green building certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), to enhance their sustainability. LEED certification focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable construction practices, helping to reduce environmental impact.
Governments and international bodies are also playing a role by implementing regulations and standards that promote sustainable practices in data centres. Expect stricter environmental requirements and incentives that encourage data centres to adopt and exceed sustainability benchmarks.
The future of data centres is set to be shaped by ongoing trends and innovations in sustainability. Businesses are investing in research and development, and new startups are introducing breakthrough solutions. The industry is at a critical juncture where it must transition from being large energy consumers to becoming more intelligent, eco-friendly, and environmentally integrated.
Equipment providers, technology companies, governments, and society at large is increasingly prioritizing sustainability. The data centre industry is not only adapting to a greener future but is also setting new standards.
