The constant evolution of the data center sector will be marked by two fundamental trends in 2024: the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and energy management focused on sustainability. Vertiv, a global leader in critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, anticipates that these two areas will be the undisputed protagonists of the coming year.
The Impact of AI on Data Center Infrastructures
The demand for AI capabilities is growing at a rapid pace, along with the pressure on data centers to support high-density computing applications. “AI is redefining the sector’s narratives,” says Giordano Albertazzi, CEO of Vertiv. “The challenge lies in how to support this growing demand while reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.”
The Revolution in Allergen Management and Sustainability
The trends for 2024 include:
Adaptable Infrastructures for AI: Current facilities must adapt to support AI, which involves significant changes in power and cooling infrastructures. The trend is toward building new facilities and large-scale upgrades of existing ones, with a growing focus on prefabricated modular solutions.
Innovative Energy Storage: The search for alternative energy storage, such as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), will expand. These technologies offer more efficient integration with alternative energy sources and reduce the environmental impact of generators.
Priority Business Flexibility: Organizations will diversify their investment and deployment strategies, focusing on on-premises capacity for proprietary AI and favoring edge application deployments. Modular solutions, as well as maintenance and service to extend equipment life, will be key.
Cloud Security Challenges: With a projected 20.4% increase in global spending on public cloud services by 2024, information security becomes a crucial aspect. Cloud service providers will seek to expand their capabilities to respond to AI demand, posing significant security challenges for customers moving data off-site.
Conclusion: A Sustainable and Technologically Advanced Future
Vertiv’s vision for 2024 highlights the importance of transitioning to more sustainable and efficient practices in data center management. The convergence of AI and sustainability will not only represent a change in technological infrastructure but also impact how companies approach energy consumption and environmental impact. Adapting to these trends is not only a matter of competitiveness but also a responsibility toward a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.