Conclusion
Time for a
new approach
As we continue to develop the potential of AI, our reliance on data centers is set to increase exponentially. Yet, data centers are far from sustainable.
As an industry, we must be ready to ask challenging questions and be prepared to invest, test and collaborate to find workable, sustainable, and economically viable solutions. Expert analysis and careful planning very early in the process will assess feasibility of adaptive reuse as well as potential impact on carbon, cost and time to delivery. There is huge potential to decarbonize and ultimately future-proof data centers through approaches including adaptive reuse, particularly when combined with other measures, such as those outlined in our paper Decarbonizing the Backbone of the Internet. Now is the time for the industry to challenge itself, to reimagine data center design and construction for a truly sustainable future. In summary:
1
Adaptive reuse
should be considered early in the location and planning process for data center projects to reduce embodied carbon, while also reducing cost and delivery times.
2
Planning
is the key to success — bringing together an understanding of the existing building with the specific requirements of the data center.
3
Heat recapture
represents truly untapped potential in every sense and should be front and center when considering any data center project.
1
Adaptive reuse
should be considered early in the location and planning process for data center projects to reduce embodied carbon, while also reducing cost and delivery times.
2
Planning
is the key to success — bringing together an understanding of the existing building with the specific requirements of the data center.
3
Heat recapture
represents truly untapped potential in every sense and should be front and center when considering any data center project.
