Data centres in developing countries are set to grow rapidly due to economic expansion, rising data demand (AI, edge computing, cryptocurrencies), and increasing data sovereignty needs. However, these facilities are highly energy-intensive, with IT equipment consuming 40–70% of total energy and cooling systems using 20–50%. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimated global data centre electricity use at 460 TWh in 2022 (~2% of total consumption), with demand possibly doubling by 2026. Despite efficiency improvements, regulations remain insufficient, with the EU still drafting its first Data Centre Regulation.
Against this background, United For Efficiency has developed the Sustainable Procurement Guidelines for Data Centres and Computer Servers. These guidelines are designed to help organisations set robust criteria and processes that improve the energy efficiency of their current or upcoming facilities. They offer recommendations on several key performance criteria and operating conditions that are most relevant and impactful for selecting energy-efficient data centres and computer servers. The criteria cover indicators such as power usage effectiveness, water usage effectiveness, IT equipment energy efficiency, and cooling effectiveness ratio.
The Sustainable Procurement Guidelines for Data Centres and Computer Servers are in their final publication process and will be available for download soon.
Download an introductory presentation and concept note, available in English and French:
Download Presentation in English
Download Presentation in French
Download Concept Note in English
Download Concept Note in French
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