As data centre power demands increase, so does the potential for significant increases in carbon emissions. Cooling remains one of the most energy-intensive aspects of data centre operations.
However, through careful design strategies and leveraging the latest technology, it is possible to achieve zero carbon cooling, thereby reducing carbon emissions and better integrating with the existing utility grid.
The challenge of zero carbon cooling
The carbon emissions of a data centre are directly linked to the carbon footprint of its power source. A data centre powered by a utility that exclusively uses hydroelectric or nuclear fission generation could achieve zero-carbon cooling relatively easily.
Unfortunately, most data centres are not situated in such favourable locations. Achieving zero-carbon cooling instead requires a comprehensive approach that includes high-efficiency cooling systems, advanced control techniques and the integration of renewable energy sources.
These data centres can achieve net-zero carbon emissions through energy storage or by providing excess renewable electricity back to the utility grid when available.
On-site renewable energy sources
On-site renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, can provide electricity that is zero-carbon. However, these sources rarely provide a stable and consistent supply of electricity that aligns perfectly with the data centre's needs.
To address this challenge, excess electricity generated by renewables can be provided to the utility grid or used to charge energy storage systems.
The most effective way to store energy for later cooling is thermal energy storage (TES). Chilled water tanks or more energy-dense ice storage tanks can be charged when carbon-free electricity is available and then readily provide cooling when renewable production is low.
While TES cannot provide the electricity needed for controls and pumps, it can offset cooling energy usage from energy production, making it possible to utilise renewable sources even when they are not generating energy.
While very effective, TES requires significant physical space to provide cooling over long periods, such as overnight, when solar is not available.
High-efficiency systems and advanced controls
Minimising energy usage is paramount in reducing carbon emissions. High-efficiency cooling systems, such as high-efficiency chillers and liquid cooling technologies, can significantly reduce the energy required for cooling.
Further improvements to the system's efficiency require better control systems.
AI control
AI can play a crucial role in optimising cooling systems. AI algorithms can predict cooling needs based on historical data and real-time monitoring, allowing for more precise control. However, many data centres have dynamic loads that are difficult to predict.
This highlights the importance of syncing the compute load to the cooling plant in real-time.
Synchronisation with compute load
Cooling equipment should be synchronised with the compute load of the data centre. By aligning cooling efforts with periods of high computational activity, energy usage can be optimised.
During periods of low computational requirements, TES can be charged for later use. This synchronisation requires active monitoring and constant communication of compute loads to the control systems that dynamically adjust equipment operation based on this real-time data.
Careful coordination and staging
Effective coordination of cooling equipment is essential. Staging and loading equipment to maximise operating efficiency can lead to significant energy savings.
For instance, using a combination of free cooling and mechanical cooling can reduce the cooling energy intensity. AI control and compute load synchronisation allow pre-emptive staging.
Purchasing carbon offsets
When on-site renewables and high-efficiency systems are insufficient to achieve zero-carbon cooling, purchasing carbon offsets can be a viable solution.
Investing in projects that reduce or capture carbon emissions elsewhere can offset the carbon footprint. This approach can help achieve zero net carbon cooling in data centres that are unable to provide sufficient on-site renewables.
The journey toward zero-carbon data centre cooling is not easy, but it is possible. It requires a combination of high-efficiency cooling plants, advanced control systems, TES, on-site renewable energy sources, and carbon offsets.
While challenging, it is a crucial step to a more sustainable future.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further advancements in cooling efficiency and renewable energy integration. Maybe in the not-too-distant future, each data centre will be powered by a dedicated Helium-3 fusion reactor, providing gigawatts of zero-carbon-emission electricity. Until then, we must leverage the best available technologies and strategies to minimise the carbon footprint of data centre cooling.
By adopting a holistic approach, we can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with data centre cooling. This will help mitigate the environmental impact of our digital age, ensuring support for our growing need for high-compute density data centres.
Bob Coleman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Kentucky.
His expertise includes product engineering, technical support, and airside applications. Bob serves as chair of ASHRAE Standard 222 Standard Method of Test for Electrical Power Drive Systems, member of Technical Committee 2.9 Ultraviolet Air and Surface Treatment and past chair of Technical Committee 1.11 Electric Motors and Motor Control.
Disclosure: This article is an advertorial, and monetary payment was received from Trane. It has passed Editorial’s assessment for being informative.
Bob Coleman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Kentucky.
His expertise includes product engineering, technical support, and airside applications. Bob serves as chair of ASHRAE Standard 222 Standard Method of Test for Electrical Power Drive Systems, member of Technical Committee 2.9 Ultraviolet Air and Surface Treatment and past chair of Technical Committee 1.11 Electric Motors and Motor Control.
Disclosure: This article is an advertorial, and monetary payment was received from Trane. It has passed Editorial’s assessment for being informative.
Bob Coleman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Kentucky.
His expertise includes product engineering, technical support, and airside applications. Bob serves as chair of ASHRAE Standard 222 Standard Method of Test for Electrical Power Drive Systems, member of Technical Committee 2.9 Ultraviolet Air and Surface Treatment and past chair of Technical Committee 1.11 Electric Motors and Motor Control.
Disclosure: This article is an advertorial, and monetary payment was received from Trane. It has passed Editorial’s assessment for being informative.
Bob Coleman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Kentucky.
His expertise includes product engineering, technical support, and airside applications. Bob serves as chair of ASHRAE Standard 222 Standard Method of Test for Electrical Power Drive Systems, member of Technical Committee 2.9 Ultraviolet Air and Surface Treatment and past chair of Technical Committee 1.11 Electric Motors and Motor Control.
Disclosure: This article is an advertorial, and monetary payment was received from Trane. It has passed Editorial’s assessment for being informative.
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