Renewable data centres only
All new data centres, and any expansion of existing ones, should rely on renewable electricity because their rapidly growing energy demand makes them a decisive lever for cutting emissions rather than locking in decades of fossil‑fuel dependence.
Powering data centres with renewables would limit strain on already stressed electricity systems at peak demand times, while also providing long‑term cost stability as renewable prices continue to fall.
Requiring renewables will also accelerate clean‑energy investment and grid modernisation, ensuring that the digital infrastructure underpinning modern economies grows in a way that is consistent with climate goals.
Data centres already account for 1.5% of global electricity use and this is only projected to rapidly surge. But they also make a lot of money, so these requirements will be met if enforced.
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