Reducing Data Centre Energy Consumption
As internet traffic and data loads are growing exponentially, the data centre industry is taking greater action towards reducing energy consumption. So, how can data centre energy efficiency be improved?
Eight ways to improve data centre energy efficiency
1. Monitoring power
DCIM systems help operators intelligently and continuously monitor, measure, and manage power and cooling requirements. From chillers, condensers, generators, UPSs, and switch gears to racks and customer-related PDUs and ATSs, a well-implemented DCIM software offers a full view and insight into the performance of all equipment to help DCs achieve the best possible energy efficiency.
All Telehouse London Docklands data centres rely on DCIM tools with automation and artificial intelligence capabilities to prevent excess power usage. We’re continuously looking to improve our data centre efficiency and recently worked with Ekkosense to trial an interactive monitoring tool using 3D modelling software to track airflow in real time in our oldest London facility, Telehouse North
2. Reducing PUE levels
Using the Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) index, DCs can measure energy efficiency throughout the year by dividing the amount of power entering into the DC by the power used to run the computer infrastructure within it.
3. Identifying idle and lightly used servers
Underused and idle servers can easily ramp up data centre power consumption as they’re inefficient and in large numbers, expensive too. Deploying intelligent PDUs with outlet level metering and utilising data from DCIM systems can help DCs better understand how a server is using energy and if it should be powered down, switched off or consolidated.
4. Deploying environmental sensors
Environmental sensors deployed at the racks measure the temperature, airflow, water and air pressure, and provide key data to drive energy efficiency, reduce costs and meet equipment guidelines. Integrated with DCIM software, they can instantly alert of spikes in power or cooling, allowing engineers to investigate and resolve potential issues faster.
5. Implementing remote power control
Not all equipment needs to run 24/7. By powering it down or switching it off, DCs could conserve a lot of energy. Using data from DCIM software, operators can identify times during which servers are not in use and implement remote power cycling programmes.
6. Utilising latest cooling technology
The latest cooling technologies make it possible to increase data centre energy efficiency, no matter where they are located. Telehouse pioneered the world’s first multi-storey adiabatic cooling system in 2016. The cooling system uses freely available natural phenomena to regulate temperature, saving significant amounts of water and energy.
7. Turning waste into an asset
As data centre infrastructure continues to grow, excess heat can be recycled and used in nearby houses, businesses, and communities. This ensures that the massive amounts of heat generated by servers is put to good use, helping to reduce mounting carbon emissions and costs in the process.
8. Switching to renewable energy
The DC industry is increasing the use of renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power, instead of relying on traditional, carbon-heavy fossil fuels. Switching to 100% renewable energy will significantly reduce the data centre carbon footprint, not only making it greener but also more attractive to new customers. Telehouse has been powering its data centres with 100% renewable energy since 2019.
Our green commitment to you
Telehouse is working to embed environmental sustainability best practice in our operations and concentrating business resources in areas that are seen as high risk or have significant carbon emissions, and where we can make the most significant environmental improvements across the business. We strive to adopt the highest standards and encourage behaviours across our operations that enhance data centre energy efficiency, competitiveness and reduce our environmental impact.
Learn more about our environmental commitment.