Singapore has introduced a pioneering sustainability standard tailored for data centres operating in tropical climates.
Announced by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) in June 2023, this initiative aims to optimise energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of data centres in regions with high temperatures and humidity.​ Data centres are integral to the digital economy, supporting services from cloud computing to artificial intelligence. However, they are also energy-intensive, with cooling systems accounting for up to 40% of their total energy consumption. In tropical climates like Singapore’s, maintaining optimal operating temperatures for equipment often necessitates significant energy use.​
The new standard encourages data centres to gradually increase their operating temperatures to 26°C and above. According to IMDA, every 1°C increase in operating temperature can lead to energy savings of 2% to 5% in cooling energy. This approach not only conserves energy but also aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints in the tech industry.​ Digital Realty, a global data centre operator, has already implemented this standard. By raising the operating temperatures of two of its data halls by 2°C, the company achieved a 2% to 3% reduction in energy usage without compromising operational reliability. Similarly, Singapore’s Government Technology Agency (GovTech) has begun trialling higher temperatures in its data centres as part of its sustainability initiatives.​
The IMDA’s sustainability standard is part of Singapore’s broader Green Data Centre Roadmap, which aims to expand the country’s data centre capacity by at least one-third while ensuring that new developments adhere to stringent environmental standards. The roadmap includes incentives for operators who meet these standards, such as grants and licensing opportunities, to promote the adoption of green technologies and practices.​ This initiative positions Singapore as a leader in integrating sustainability into digital infrastructure. By setting a global benchmark for energy-efficient data centre operations in tropical climates, Singapore is not only addressing its environmental challenges but also providing a model for other nations grappling with similar issues. The successful implementation of this standard could pave the way for widespread adoption of sustainable practices in the global data centre industry.​
As the demand for digital services continues to rise, the need for sustainable infrastructure becomes increasingly urgent. Singapore’s proactive approach underscores the importance of aligning technological advancement with environmental stewardship, ensuring that the growth of the digital economy does not come at the expense of the planet’s health.​
Also Read:Â https://urbanacres.in/delhi-economic-council-proposal-gains-momentum/
