Taking a Multi-Pronged Approach to Data Center Sustainability
As data center operators invest in new infrastructure designed to create and run AI models, they must also realize the massive opportunity to examine sustainability and reduce carbon emissions through procurement and operations. The surge in AI applications is already being felt, with research by Omdia showing that data center power consumption doubled last year to over 400TWh. This figure is expected to reach 1,000 TWh in 2026.
New electricity generation cannot meet this demand alone, nor will it solve the greater problem of minimizing data centers’ carbon footprint. The good news is Legrand has developed infrastructure designed to improve sustainability on multiple fronts. Data center sustainability requires a multi-pronged approach, with consideration given to every aspect of the facility. Operators must not only consider their power source, for example, but how it is being distributed, how it’s being managed and how heat is being dissipated. A holistic approach to sustainability requires that infrastructure be designed and purpose-built to meet emissions-reduction goals.
Improving Emissions Reductions: Understanding Scope 1, 2, 3 Emissions
As the industry faces increased scrutiny over the amount of electricity it uses, it is also becoming more transparent about its carbon footprint. Carbon emissions reporting, now common for hyperscalers and larger colocation providers, provides valuable insights into operations and energy usage by breaking them down into three categories:
● Scope 1 represents emissions from sources controlled or owned by an organization, such as onsite generators and maintenance vehicles, among others.
● Scope 2 includes emissions from the production of electricity and chilled water that data centers purchase.
● Scope 3 emissions stem from the carbon emitted from the production of purchased equipment, goods, and services, including transporting equipment to the site all the way through its end of life.
Download our case study with Omdia for more information
Data center operators traditionally sought to lessen their environmental impact by targeting the simplest solutions, focusing on their power purchasing strategies at the Scope 2 level. This includes purchasing renewable energy from utility operators. With much success seen already in addressing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, it’s time to look at the relatively untapped, and admittedly more complex Scope 3.
The Scope 3 level is where there is the greatest potential for reducing the data center sector’s greenhouse gas emissions, as these account for more than 65% of a facility’s total emissions. Lowering Scope 3 emissions involves working with partners whose values and internal actions align with each operator’s sustainability goals. Actively collaborating with suppliers is the best way for data centers to achieve positive results at the Scope 3 level. Through the identification and implementation of new efficiencies, there is a tremendous opportunity to realize higher profit margins, lower carbon emissions and redirect wasted power into leading-edge AI infrastructure.
Sustainable by Design: How We Support Data Center Sustainability
Legrand actively aims to reduce Scope 3 emissions through our design and manufacturing processes. By strategically distributing our manufacturing plants around the globe, we are able to produce more than 50% of products near the end user, lowering emissions simply by reducing the shipping distance.
We also follow the circular economy model of production and consumption, an approach that aims to minimize waste and make the most of resources throughout the product lifecycle by keeping materials in use for as long as possible. The process involves three steps: using fewer raw materials in product design, using recycled materials, and reducing waste by designing products that are themselves recyclable.
The result of these efforts are products that not only maximize efficiency in the data center, further supporting sustainability goals, but also lower costs, offering more reliability and greater flexibility. These products include:
● Starline Track Busway
● Server Technology PRO4X Rack PDU
● Raritan PX4 Rack PDU
● Starline M70 Critical Power Monitor
● Legrand’s acclAIM™ Fiber Solution
When it comes to reducing data center emissions, you can’t go it alone. It takes a collaborative approach with a partner dedicated to achieving internal efficiencies and prioritizing the development of sustainable data center equipment. Together, you can achieve long-term success in lowering greenhouse gas emissions, while also maximizing performance and cost-savings. At Legrand, we have a proven track record of enabling sustainable data center practices, and we are constantly exploring ways to build upon that history in every iteration of our data center infrastructure solutions. For more information, download our case study, Legrand’s sustainable product design principles and culture: Practical solutions to engineering a sustainable data center and maximizing the value of existing technology.