Data centres need rules for use of renewable energies, efficiency – researchers

Given the rise in electricity consumption by data centres, the Institute for Applied Ecology (Öko-Institut) has called for clear guidelines on energy efficiency, the use of renewable energies and public participation. The researchers proposed efficiency standards, mandatory disclosure of electricity use, exclusive reliance on renewable power, and requirements to use waste heat.

The coalition government has agreed to boost data centres in Germany, and the ministry for digitalisation is developing a national strategy to be completed by the end of the year. It conducted a stakeholder consultation among operators, energy suppliers and network operators, municipalities and states, IT companies, fibre optic network operators, real estate developers, and representatives of civil society. The strategy will outline Germany’s role as a data centre hub, identify priority areas and set out measures in an immediate action plan. Sustainability will be a key focus.

Öko-Institut said that data centres today use about five percent of German electricity, and consumption could double by 2030. The facilities consume large amounts of water for cooling, and could drive up emissions if renewable expansion lags. “Ideally, data centres should be located where ample renewable electricity is available, waste heat can be put to use by households or businesses, land use conflicts are avoided, and water is not in short supply,” said the institute.

In its submission to the consultation, digital industry association Bitkom said that “a stable, sufficient and sustainable electricity supply with internationally competitive prices is the prerequisite for a strong German data centre location by 2030.” It called for faster permit procedures and updated efficiency rules.