How to power the digital age sustainably

Data centers are the backbone of the digital age, powering everything from streaming services to financial transactions to cryptocurrency mining. Their massive energy demands and significant water use also pose serious environmental challenges.

As the need for data storage and processing grows, so does the need for sustainable strategies. We explore the complexities of these challenges and some ways to make data centers more viable.

The Dual Challenge: Energy and Water Use

Data centers are among the most energy-intensive facilities in the world, despite only accounting for roughly 1% of global energy consumption. This energy demand contributes significantly to carbon emissions, particularly when the center is powered by fossil fuels. Cooling systems, which prevent servers from overheating, are typically the most energy-intensive component and can account for up to 40% of a data center’s total energy use.

Cooling systems also require large volumes of water, used directly for evaporative cooling or indirectly as virtual water in the generation of electricity to power servers. The high demand resulting from this dual water use can strain local water supplies, especially if the region is facing water scarcity.

In data centers, energy and water use are inextricably linked. Reducing energy consumption often requires more water for cooling, while water-efficient cooling methods can drive up energy use. Finding a balance between the two is crucial for sustainable operations. 

Innovative Cooling Technologies

New cooling technologies are helping to address the energy-water nexus in data centers:

Air Cooling. Data centers can reduce their dependence on water cooling systems by using natural ventilation and maximizing air circulation to enhance air cooling. Using cooler ambient air in regions with cold climates or using heat exchangers can significantly lower water and energy demands.

Liquid Cooling. Advanced liquid cooling methods, such as direct-to-chip cooling, immersion cooling, and other technologies, are transforming data center efficiency. By transferring heat directly to liquid coolants, these methods require less energy than traditional air-based cooling and can operate with minimal water.

Water Conservation Strategies. Reducing water use in cooling systems is vital for sustainable operations. This can be achieved in several ways. 

• Water reuse: Integrating circular water management such as recycling wastewater for reuse in cooling systems and other nonpotable applications can reduce freshwater demand. MBR wastewater treatment systems provide an efficient way to treat water for reuse, producing high-quality water that is suitable for cooling operations.

• Rainwater harvesting: Capturing and storing rainwater offers a sustainable source for cooling and reduces the demand for local water.

• Graywater recycling: Reusing graywater from sinks and other nonindustrial sources can further reduce the demand for fresh water.

Renewable Energy Integration

Transitioning to renewable energy sources can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of data centers. Installing solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems on-site can provide a renewable source of clean energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Data centers also can offset their carbon emissions and support renewable energy projects by purchasing renewable energy certificates (RECs). Data centers can also participate in grid optimization and demand response programs, which allow them to adjust energy use during peak demand to reduce the strain on the grid.

Data Center Locations and Siting

The location of data centers can play a critical role in their environmental impact. Building data centers near abundant renewable energy resources ensures access to clean energy and minimizes transmission losses. Having ample access to cooling resources can contribute to long-term sustainability as well. Strategic site selection, such as establishing facilities in cooler climates or areas with ample water resources, can reduce the energy and water requirements for cooling systems, minimize the environmental impact on local ecosystems, and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources.

Policy and Regulatory Frameworks

Strong regulations are key to promoting sustainable data center practices. Incentives like tax breaks and subsidies for renewable energy and efficient cooling systems can drive change, while region-specific regulations can help manage water use in areas where data centers compete with local communities for limited resources. Regulations that promote transparency by requiring data centers to disclose their energy and water use foster accountability and encourage innovation to minimize environmental impacts.

Building a Sustainable Future for Data Centers

As the world becomes increasingly dependent on digital connectivity, data centers must evolve to meet growing demands without compromising environmental sustainability. By adopting innovative cooling technologies, integrating renewable energy, and carefully considering location, the industry can balance operational efficiency and sustainable resource use.