Green Data Centres: EMEA’s Push Towards Carbon Neutrality

As digital transformation accelerates across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), the demand for data processing and storage has surged. However, this growth comes with a significant environmental impact. Data centres, which power our digital lives, are among the most energy-intensive facilities globally. In response, the EMEA region is witnessing a shift towards green data centres that prioritise sustainability without compromising performance.

The Imperative for Sustainable Data Centres  

Data centres account for a large part of global electricity consumption. In Europe alone, they are responsible for approximately 2–3% of total electricity use. This consumption is driven by the need for continuous operation, cooling systems, and backup power solutions. As digital services expand, so does the environmental footprint of these facilities.

To mitigate this impact, the EMEA region is embracing sustainable practices, including renewable energy sourcing, energy-efficient designs, and innovative cooling technologies. These initiatives aim to reduce carbon emissions and align with global climate goals.

 Green Data Centres: EMEA’s Push Towards Carbon Neutrality 

Case Study 1: Greenergy Data Centres, Estonia  

Greenergy Data Centres, located in Tallinn, Estonia, exemplify the integration of sustainability into data centre operations. The facility is EN 50600 certified, making it the most energy-efficient and secure data centre in the Baltics. Utilising the region’s cold climate, the facility employs advanced cooling techniques that significantly reduce energy consumption. The data centre is powered by renewable energy sources, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint. Additionally, Greenergy collaborates with technology partners to implement AI-driven systems that optimise energy usage and enhance operational efficiency.

Case Study 2: Google’s Hamina Data Centre, Finland  

Google’s data centre in Hamina, Finland, showcases innovative approaches to sustainability. The facility utilises seawater from the Bay of Finland for cooling, reducing the need for traditional air conditioning systems. In a pioneering move, Google has invested in a heat recovery project that captures excess heat from the data centre and redirects it to the local district heating network. This initiative provides sustainable heating to nearby homes and businesses, demonstrating a commitment to community-centric environmental practices.

Case Study 3: VIRTUS Data Centres, United Kingdom  

VIRTUS Data Centres, operating across the United Kingdom, have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030. The company exclusively uses renewable energy sources, including wind, hydro, and solar power, to operate its facilities. In 2024, VIRTUS saved approximately 210,000,000 kg of CO2 emissions by utilising 100% renewable energy. The company has also entered into a corporate power purchase agreement (CPPA) for 31 MW of wind power, further strengthening its commitment to sustainable operations.

Key Elements of Eco-Friendly Data Centres  

Building a sustainable data centre involves several critical components:

• Renewable Energy Sourcing: Utilising wind, solar, or hydro power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Efficient Cooling Systems: Implementing free-air cooling or liquid cooling to minimise energy use.
• Energy-Efficient Design: Employing modular designs and energy-efficient hardware to optimise power usage.
• Heat Recovery and Reuse: Capturing excess heat for use in district heating systems or other applications.
• Sustainable Building Materials: Using eco-friendly materials and construction practices to reduce environmental impact.
• Circular Economy Practices: Recycling and reusing equipment and materials to minimise waste.

Challenges and Opportunities  

While the transition to sustainable data centres presents numerous benefits, it also comes with challenges:

• High Initial Investment: Implementing green technologies often requires significant upfront capital.
• Technological Integration: Integrating new systems with existing infrastructure can be complex.
• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating varying environmental regulations across different regions can be challenging.

Despite these challenges, the shift towards eco-friendly data centres offers opportunities for innovation, cost savings through energy efficiency, and alignment with global sustainability goals.

The Future of Sustainable Data Centres in EMEA  

The future of data centres in the EMEA region lies in the continued adoption of sustainable practices. As technology advances, new solutions for energy efficiency, cooling, and waste reduction will emerge. Collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and communities will be essential to drive the transition towards a carbon-neutral digital infrastructure.

Conclusion  

The rise of green IT data centres or eco-friendly data centres in the EMEA region marks a significant step towards sustainable digital infrastructure. Through innovative approaches and a commitment to environmental stewardship, these facilities are setting new standards for the industry. As the demand for digital services continues to grow, embracing sustainability will be crucial to ensuring a balanced and responsible technological future.