By: Nikita Garg, Partner, Hunt Partners
India’s digital landscape is witnessing a meteoric rise, driven by the burgeoning demand for data centers. This surge has positioned the country as a global hotspot for technology giants and startups alike. However, the environmental footprint of data centres is a growing concern. Globally, data centers consume about 2% of the world’s electricity and emit CO2 emissions equivalent to the airline industry. Their energy requirements are doubling every four years, adding significantly to the global carbon footprint. As India’s data centre industry matures, it becomes imperative to prioritise sustainability and minimise the industry’s environmental impact.
One of the most pressing challenges is the energy consumption associated with cooling. Traditional air-conditioning systems can be remarkably inefficient, consuming significant amounts of energy. To address this issue, innovative cooling technologies are gaining traction. For instance, liquid immersion cooling systems can significantly reduce energy consumption by directly cooling servers with a specialised liquid. Moreover, the integration of renewable energy sources is a pivotal step toward sustainable data centres. Solar power, in particular, offers a viable solution for meeting the energy demands of these facilities. By harnessing the abundant sunlight in India, data centres can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner energy grid.
In addition to cooling solutions and renewable energy, adopting higher-density storage solutions, such as HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), helps maximise productivity while using less electricity. Major global technology giants, including Apple, Amazon, Meta, Google, and Microsoft, are driving this growing demand for data centres. Their vast infrastructures require innovations that reduce the overall environmental impact.
Furthermore, relevant research and reports from 2024 indicate that sustainable infrastructure investments in the data centre industry are increasing. According to a recent study by MarketsandMarkets, the global data centre power market is expected to grow from $19.1 billion in 2023 to $26.8 billion by 2028, emphasising the need for energy-efficient technologies.
Additionally, optimiing server utilisation and adopting energy-efficient hardware can significantly improve the sustainability of data centres. Virtualisation technologies enable multiple virtual servers to run on a single physical server, reducing energy consumption and improving resource utilisation. Moreover, investing in energy-efficient servers and networking equipment can yield substantial energy savings over time.
As India’s data centre industry continues to evolve, it is essential to embrace sustainable practices and prioritise environmental responsibility. By investing in innovative technologies, harnessing renewable energy, and optimising operations, we can ensure that the growth of India’s digital infrastructure is both sustainable and beneficial for future generations.
Moreover, it is crucial to consider the broader environmental implications of data centres. The construction and operation of these facilities contribute to land use changes, water consumption, and waste generation. To mitigate these impacts, it is essential to implement sustainable design practices and adopt environmentally friendly operational procedures.
One effective strategy is to prioritise the reuse and repurposing of existing buildings for data centre facilities. This approach can reduce the need for new construction, minimise land use impacts, and leverage existing infrastructure. Additionally, implementing water-efficient cooling systems and adopting waste management practices can further reduce the environmental footprint of data centres. Furthermore, fostering collaboration between industry stakeholders, government agencies, and research institutions is essential for driving innovation and promoting sustainable practices in the data centre sector. By working together, we can develop and implement effective solutions to address the environmental challenges associated with data centres and ensure a sustainable future for India’s digital landscape.
In conclusion, India’s data centre boom presents a unique opportunity to drive digital innovation and economic growth. However, it is imperative to address the environmental challenges associated with this expansion. By adopting sustainable practices, investing in innovative technologies, and fostering collaboration, we can ensure that India’s digital infrastructure is both sustainable and beneficial for future generations.
