Green IT refers to the approach of making the entire lifecycle of information and communication technology (ICT) more sustainable. This includes the production, operation, and disposal of IT equipment. The goal is to build an ICT infrastructure that operates in a resource-conserving and energy-efficient manner.
Green IT can be divided into two main areas:
Data centers offer significant potential for efficiency improvements. A key metric is the PUE value (PUE = Power Usage Effectiveness), which measures the ratio of a data center’s total energy consumption to the energy consumption of the IT systems. In 2022, the PUE value averaged 1.55: This means that 55% of the energy was used for cooling, power distribution, and other building functions, rather than directly for operating the IT.
The Energy Efficiency Act (EnEfG) came into force in Germany in November 2023. It implements the requirements of the European Energy Efficiency Directive and includes stricter specifications for data centers in Germany. From 2024, data centers must cover 50% of their energy needs from renewable energy sources, and from 2025, 100%. In addition, a PUE value of 1.3 and a waste heat utilization rate increasing gradually from 10% to at least 20% are to be targeted for new data centers in the future.
There are various approaches to saving energy in the data center:
Traditional air conditioning of the entire room was often inefficient. Modern solutions such as cold aisle containment consistently separate cold and warm airflows, making cooling more efficient. Cold air is directed specifically to the servers, while warm air is exhausted. This method reduces energy costs.
Structured and modular cabling also contributes to energy savings. Flat cabling systems and compact cable designs ensure better air circulation and reduce blockage of ventilation paths in network cabinets. Fiber-optic cables, which take up less space and enable longer transmission distances, are particularly advantageous.
High-quality materials and durable designs are essential components of Green IT. They ensure that IT components last a long time and therefore conserve resources. In addition, durable products reduce the need for frequent replacements and the associated environmental impact.
Green IT is a holistic approach and consists of a bundle of measures. The goal is to increase sustainability in information technology. Data centers in particular offer many starting points for reducing energy consumption and thus becoming more environmentally friendly. By using efficient technologies and smart solutions, the IT industry can significantly reduce its CO2 footprint while also lowering operating costs.
