The Truth About Data Center Energy Consumption

In the last two years, the data center market landscape in the Philippines has faced numerous changes. These rapid developments were made possible due to the increasing demands on technology use, the popularity of social media and entertainment platforms, the continuous expansion of the BPO industry, and e-commerce dominating the business sector.

Consequently, experts anticipate more opportunities and innovations to arise, thanks to the data center market expansion. However, the country needs increased energy and electricity usage to achieve this, posing negative impacts.

Globally, data centers consumed 220-320 TWh of electricity or 0.9-1.3% of the world's total electrical demand, according to 2021 data released by IEA data--this amount of consumption is excessive and not sustainable.

This situation is also the same in the Philippines. In fact, as the country is poised as a rising data center hub in Southeast Asia (SEA), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) sets out to investigate this phenomenon. The agency believes that the repercussions of massive energy use must be examined. Prioritizing sustainability in growing this new asset class entails opening conversations on how the country should address greenhouse emissions backed with data center investments.

"To leverage growth and change, one must also be aware of its repercussions. As the country is fast becoming a data center hub, organizations that will build and operate data centers need tools that can cut energy and costs. For Vertiv, this means ensuring that we can help provide Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems with Dynamic Grid Support technology, liquid cooling, and integrating lithium-ion technology," said Jason Lim, Country Manager, Vertiv Philippines.

Here's how these UPS solutions can help make data center hubs sustainable for future growth and innovation:

Grid Interactive UPS as the next power move

Growing demand for more energy exists primarily because of data centers, which is the global reality. This does not mean that it cannot be managed. Growing center hubs, like the Philippines, can push for more renewable sources to reduce carbon emissions.

Less use of diesel generators will be achieved when data centers start relying on UPS systems and batteries for conditioning and backup power. It provides a backup power supply that prevents equipment damage if a grid shuts down. It also delivers capable grid services that maintain system-wide balance and better management of electricity transmission. Businesses and private energy users can commercialize the energy given by the Grid Interactive UPS, which lowers the overall energy costs.

Switch to Liquid Cooling for efficiency

Higher densities of computing leads are experienced from the digital growth of data centers. Stability is best ensured when changes are made to cool down infrastructure's critical systems. Liquid cooling is another option since normal air-cooling systems cannot support today's higher rack densities.

Liquid cooling is efficient because it eliminates fan usage. In return, this diminishes carbon emissions. It also uses a pumping system that consumes less power, making it cost-efficient. Lastly, this reduces data center energy consumption while driving power usage effectiveness (PUE) down to nearly 1.0. When data centers must be equipped with high-density racks, air cooling cannot control it, making liquid cooling a more reliable tool. It makes all the equipment function safer and avoids overheating.

Utilize Lithium-ion technology in UPS systems

Lithium-ion technology functions by supporting growing data centers that welcome new technologies to promote savings and longevity on UPS systems. UPS and battery installation are made simpler because it is compact, lightweight, and flexible. It has a longer lifespan that saves more energy and can outgrow the UPS itself.

Overheating is not a problem with Lithium-ion technology. Without sacrificing performance, it's able to withstand higher temperatures. When used in UPS, it is competent to handle demanding tasks and resist extreme facility conditions. This technology is optimized for data center applications and is fit to keep up with its changing nature.

Increased demands for data center hubs are opening various opportunities for everyone, which is vital for the country's needs. However, making technological developments more sustainable, cost-efficient for organizations, and environmental-friendly is equally important. Vertiv continues to produce various solutions for businesses and organizations that promote responsible practices.

To learn more about how Vertiv supports the continuity of today's vital business, visit Vertiv.com.