TECHNOLOGY could enable the removal of generators or UPS systems completely .”
The Holistic Approach The fact that the data centre industry is , in more and more places , essentially maxing out its efficiency when it comes to PUE may not actually be a bad thing . Obviously , lower PUE scores are better for the environment ( not to mention everyone ’ s bottom line ), but the loss of ultra-low PUE as a differentiator between data centres focused on sustainability may have the effect of pushing operators to look elsewhere for ways to outshine their peers in terms of efficiency and green innovations . Watkins explains that “ We continue to innovate but also to broaden our view of the data centre with regards to sustainability , from the carbon impact of the physical construction of the buildings , right through to how we use natural resources such as rainwater harvesting , aquifers to access natural water resources , and even living walls on the exterior of our data centres .”
Whether it ’ s embracing liquid cooling ( using water or dielectric fluids ), building aquifers , returning waste heat to the local utility grid , the industry ’ s near-exhaustion of PUE efficiency gains is pushing more and more operators to look at the bigger picture .
“ The data centre market is no stranger to energy efficiency strategies , and in recent years has led by example in the missioncritical arena ,” Johnson reflects . “ Strides have been made , and the sector has laid the groundwork to continue on a greener growth path .” datacentremagazine . com 103