EU Sets Sights on Energy-Efficient Data Centers

The EU aims to develop energy efficiency standards for data centers amid rising power use concerns. By 2030, data centers could consume over 28 gigawatts. The initiative, part of an EU tech package, addresses clean energy use and includes sustainability labels, with a focus on reducing reliance on Big Tech.

The European Union is set to establish minimum energy-efficiency standards for data centers as their power consumption continues to climb. Data center capacity in the EU is projected to increase from 12 gigawatts last year to 28 gigawatts by 2030.

This growth will elevate their electricity consumption beyond the current 2.5% share. The European Commission is planning to set performance benchmarks for new and existing data centers, with a comprehensive assessment expected by 2027. These centers are critical for supporting digital services but could hinder Europe's clean energy transition if power demands aren't carefully managed.

Plans, which include a sustainability label for data centers, have been delayed due to ongoing discussions about facilities powered by nuclear energy. Additionally, the proposal is a component of a larger EU tech strategy to strengthen domestic cloud and AI capabilities while mitigating dependence on major tech companies.