Climate change mitigation and adaptation: What works for data centres? Part 3

This research document evaluates strategies for addressing climate change within the specific context of data centre infrastructure. The findings are based on data from ClimaTech, which is described as the largest global database on technologies and strategies for infrastructure decarbonisation and resilience. The report is structured to address two primary objectives: mitigating climate change by identifying effective solutions to decarbonise infrastructure and adapting to climate consequences by understanding physical risks and assessing resilience measures.

ClimateTech is the largest global database on technologies and strategies to…

The ClimaTech database identifies the most effective solutions for decarbonising infrastructure and helps stakeholders understand the physical risks each type of infrastructure faces. Mitigation efforts are categorised into three scopes of emissions. Scope 1 refers to direct emissions from the infrastructure. Scope 2 covers emissions linked to energy consumption. Scope 3 encompasses all other indirect emissions, such as transport, procurement, and waste. For adaptation, the report focuses on four types of physical risk: flood, storm, heat, and wildfire. Data centres are utilised as a key example to understand the practical application of these ClimaTech strategies.

Decarbonisation (1/3)

The first category of decarbonisation (S1) focuses on increasing the energy efficiency of operations. Key technologies identified for achieving this include smart cooling systems and efficient server hardware designed for lower power consumption and enhanced workload management. Additionally, the strategy highlights the importance of advanced energy management systems and waste heat recovery. The effectiveness of these measures for data centres is rated as Medium, with a recorded figure of 35%.

Decarbonisation (2/3)

Decarbonisation (S2) focuses on renewable energy generation through off-site purchase agreements. The strategy involves the use of power purchase agreements and electricity generated from wind, solar, and hydro sources. It also leverages blockchain-based energy tracking systems, digital marketplaces, and renewable energy credits (RECs). This approach is identified as having a Very High effectiveness rating of 100%, making it the most successful mitigation strategy outlined in the report.

Decarbonisation (3/3)

The third decarbonisation category (S3) aims to reduce fuel and energy use by optimising operating procedures. Technological solutions include AI-driven workload management, advanced cooling technologies, and smart energy management systems. The strategy also suggests the implementation of on-site energy storage. However, the effectiveness of these procedural optimisations is currently rated as Low, at 28%.

Physical Risk (1/4)

Adaptation to flood risks is pursued through the strategy of upgrading existing drainage systems. Recommended technologies include enlarging drainage pipes, installing additional pumping stations, and integrating smart drainage. The use of high-capacity stormwater drains and backflow prevention valves is also noted. While the level of protection provided by these measures is considered Medium, the risk reduction effectiveness is currently Low, at 19%.

Physical Risk (2/4)

To mitigate storm risks, the report recommends retrofitting or building new structures with wind-resistant design features. Key technologies for this purpose include reinforcing roof-wall connections, installing impact-resistant windows and doors, and anchoring equipment or structures to withstand strong winds. This strategy offers a High level of protection and a Medium risk reduction effectiveness, calculated at 60%.

Physical Risk (3/4)

Heat risks are addressed through natural and evaporative cooling systems. Key technologies include the creation of shaded courtyards, rooftop water features, and natural ventilation systems. The strategy also employs AI-driven climate modelling and evaporative cooling systems. The level of protection for these heat-related measures is rated as Medium, but the risk reduction effectiveness is High, reaching 70%.

Physical Risk (4/4)

Wildfire adaptation strategies involve the use of fire-resistant materials for buildings and storage areas to increase the facility’s resistance to heat and flames. Relevant materials include fire-resistant steel, concrete, treated wood, fire-rated glass, and intumescent coatings. The risk reduction effectiveness for these wildfire resilience measures ranges from Low to Medium, specifically between 8-50 %.

EDHEC Climate Institute

The EDHEC Climate Institute is an independent research centre that combines scientific expertise, economic analysis, and advanced climate risk modelling. The institute relies on more than 200 academic papers, technical documents, and government reports to inform its work. It comprises a team of specialised researchers and engineers with years of experience in applied research serving the sustainable finance sector. By utilising extensive data sources like ClimaTech, the institute provides factual assessments of technology-driven measures to reduce infrastructure climate risk.