Effective Sustainability Practices for Modern Data Centres
Introduction
In large economies such as the United States, China and the European Union, data centres account for around 2-4% of total electricity consumption as of 2024. Without sustainable practices, these figures are projected to grow significantly. Sustainability in data centre operations is no longer a choice - it’s a necessity. From optimising energy use to adopting cutting edge green technologies, businesses are embracing sustainable practices to reduce operational costs and create a greener future by reducing their carbon footprint.
In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies and solutions for achieving data centre sustainability, helping you stay ahead in an eco-conscious world. Whether you’re looking to cut energy expenses or align with environmental standards, these insights will help optimise your data centre while making a positive environmental impact.
Key Sustainable Practices for your Data Centre
Energy Efficient Cooling Systems
Air conditioning accounts for a substantial portion of energy usage in data centres. Effective cooling systems and strategies could include the following.
- Liquid Cooling Technology: A more energy-efficient alternative to traditional air cooling.
- Free Cooling Methods: Utilising ambient air or water to reduce reliance on energy heavy HVAC systems.
- Routine Maintenance: Regular inspections to optimise cooling system performance and prevent energy inefficiencies.
Implement Predictive Maintenance with EMS Systems
Predictive maintenance utilises sensors and EMS (Environmental Monitoring Systems) to monitor equipment in real-time, ensuring repairs and call outs are made only when necessary. Benefits of an EMS system would include.
- Reduced Downtime: Fixing potential faults before they develop into failures. This is achieved by connecting all supporting mission critical systems and threshold setpoints such as temperature and humidity.
- Minimised Waste: Avoiding premature disposal of functional equipment.
- Improved Efficiency: Real time data monitoring for power optimisation and insights to optimise supporting mission critical systems within the data centre such as air conditioning.
Upgrading Legacy Equipment
- Energy Inefficiency: Older hardware is typically far less energy efficient which leads to higher power consumption and increased electrical costs.
- Limited Performance: Legacy systems struggle to handle modern workloads, requiring additional equipment to meet demands which further increases energy costs.
- Increased Downtime: Aging equipment is more prone to failures, resulting in higher maintenance needs and potential disruptions.
- Regulatory Compliance: More modern systems are designed to meet environmental standards which makes it easier to comply with modern sustainability standards.
Optimise PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness)
- Optimise Cooling systems by implementing Hot/Cold Aisle Containment.
- Replacing Legacy equipment.
- Cleaning and recalibrating power distribution units.
- Ensuring IT loads are balanced across phases to reduce energy loss.
- Upgrading lighting systems to LED technology.
- Regular Energy Audits carried out by data centre experts like us.
How to Start Your Sustainability Journey
To integrate sustainability into your data centre maintenance plan, we would advise carrying out the following plan.
- Conduct an energy and resource audit.
- Partner with experts in sustainable maintenance technologies.
- Educate your team on eco-friendly practices and the importance of sustainability.
- Set measurable sustainability goals and track progress.
Sustainability in data centre maintenance is no longer optional—it's essential for reducing environmental impact, cutting costs and future-proofing operations. By adopting innovative technologies and eco-friendly practices, data centres can lead the charge toward a greener digital future. Does your data centre need a sustainability upgrade? Let our team guide you through the transition to greener operations. Contact us today to learn more.
