The event “Demystifying Data Centres: The Backbone of the EU’s Twin Transition”, recently organized in Brussels, highlighted the crucial role of data centers in the European Union’s vision for achieving a sustainable and digitally advanced economy. Political leaders, business executives, and industry experts convened to discuss how this infrastructure drives technological transformation and sustainability in Europe.
The Transformative Role of Data Centres
During the opening discussion, the relevance of data centers in Europe’s energy and digital transitions was emphasized. Alban Schmutz, board member of CISPE, highlighted the importance of harmonized regulation across Europe:
“Data centers are essential to achieving climate neutrality goals. However, excessive regulations can hinder progress. We need clear and practical regulations that allow us to advance without stifling innovation. Legislative consistency in Europe is key to efficiently scaling this industry and supporting digital and energy objectives.”
The CEO of EUDCA, Michael Winterson, reinforced this message by emphasizing that without robust digital infrastructure, Europe will not be able to compete with powers like China or North America. Furthermore, Niamh Gallagher, AWS’s public infrastructure policy director, underscored the transformational potential of data centers:
“Data centers and cloud technologies are key to accelerating digital and energy transitions. Amazon already matches 100% of its electricity consumption with renewable energy and plans to achieve water positivity by 2030. To achieve sustainable digital growth, we need significant investments in networks and enabling policies.”
Challenges and Opportunities in the Sector
Robert Nuij, Deputy Head of Unit at the DG Energy of the European Commission, pointed out the need to ensure this infrastructure can grow to support digital and energy transitions. However, Veronica Manfredi, Director of DG Environment, warned about misconceptions regarding the environmental impact of data centers. Manfredi emphasized the urgency of modernizing water infrastructure in Europe, highlighting that data centers can play a key role in this transformation thanks to their technological expertise.
Among the critical topics addressed during the event, the following were highlighted:
- Water and energy efficiency: Advances in cooling technologies, such as liquid and air cooling systems, are reducing the environmental impact of data centers.
- Heat reuse: Successful projects in Europe are already utilizing waste heat from data centers for district heating systems.
- Decarbonization: Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and investment in energy storage were identified as key strategies for achieving carbon-neutral operations.
Myths and Realities of Data Centres
One of the thematic areas of the event focused on debunking common myths about data centers. Among the misconceptions addressed were:
- Excessive environmental impact: While data centers consume large amounts of energy, their efficiency is significantly higher than that of many traditional industries.
- Low job creation: Data centers generate direct and indirect jobs, in addition to fostering training in advanced technologies.
- The “cloud” eliminates the need for physical centers: The cloud is merely a term that encompasses the use of these highly sophisticated physical centers.
Innovations Presented
The event also included an exploration of emerging technologies. Through virtual reality experiences, attendees were able to learn about projects such as the CyrusOne campus in Hanau, Germany, and the Digital Twin of KevlinX in Brussels, which enhances transparency and sustainability.
Toward a Common Strategy
The future of data centers in Europe hinges on effective collaboration among governments, businesses, and local communities. Investments in electrical networks, inclusive policies, and the implementation of advanced technologies are critical to ensuring this infrastructure remains the cornerstone of the continent’s digital and energy transformation.
As concluded by Spanish MEP Nicolás Casares:
“We must prioritize equitable growth, with investments in renewable energy and inclusive planning, ensuring that local communities also benefit from technological progress.”
Europe is facing a critical moment, where data centers are positioned as the axis of its transition toward a more digital, green, and sustainable future.
via: Cispe cloud