MUNTERS
net zero or carbon negative and they lead the way . As an industry we ’ ve all got that mindset .”
Cutting corners is not an option for an industry that has so many eyes on its efficiency – but Munters is a company with a history of prioritising efficiency .
Managing increasing regulation Data centre regulation is evolving rapidly , with sustainability and energy efficiency at the forefront of new legislation . As the industry grapples with increasing scrutiny , operators are finding themselves at the cutting edge of environmental practices , often outpacing other sectors in their efforts to reduce carbon footprints .
The European Union ( EU ) has been particularly active in this space , with Germany leading the charge by implementing stringent Power Usage Effectiveness ( PUE ) requirements for data centres . This push for efficiency is coupled with legislation mandating energy reuse , a move that has been widely welcomed within the sector . “ In Germany , PUE levels for design have to be quite low , which is great for us ,” says Craig . “ They ’ re legislating that you have to have a certain percentage available for heat reuse – it ’ s the right thing to do .”
However , the implementation of such regulations is not without its challenges . “ What needs to happen is probably better planning throughout all authorities and throughout all countries , so that they build facilities that can use the energy that data centres are producing ,” Craig explains .
One area of concern for the industry is the potential ban on certain refrigerants , particularly those with low Global Warming Potential ( GWP ). Craig has reservations about this approach , “ I understand the mentality of it , but you have to balance the benefits of these low GWP refrigerants against the risks .”
The debate around refrigerants highlights the complex balancing act regulators face . While aiming to reduce environmental impact , they must also consider the practicalities and safety implications of alternatives .
As the industry continues to navigate these regulatory waters , the overarching goal of carbon neutrality remains paramount . “ I think what ’ s going to affect most of us is carbon neutrality ,” Craig says . This focus on sustainability is likely to shape the future of data centre design and operation for years to come , with regulations serving as both a challenge and a catalyst for innovation in the sector .
The future of data centres Whilst Munters ’ data centre business is already on a growth trajectory , there are no signs of it stopping soon – or the wider industry growth .
“ It ’ s all about growth ,” Craig concludes . “ We ’ ve built factories to increase our capacity in Munters and we just expect to fill those factories .
“ We ’ re in the data centre industry , which is an incredible industry for growth , and it ’ s a wave that we ’ re excited to ride .”
132 December 2024