Empowering the Future – Part 2: The Evolving Data Center Landscape, Energy Consumption, and Digital Infrastructure with Rabih Bashroush
In part two of his in-depth interview with Joyce Dickerson, Ada’s ESG lead, Professor Rabih Bashroush, Director of the Enterprise Computing (EC) Research Lab at the University of East London (UEL), discusses the evolving landscape of data centers, energy consumption, and the future of digital infrastructure.
What have been the primary changes in energy consumption by data centers in recent years?
Over the past several years, there has been a notable surge in energy consumption by data centers. I estimate that the figures have increased from approximately 400 terawatt hours in 2018 to potentially around 700–800 terawatt hours by 2025. This includes roughly 200 terawatt hours from colocation, 200 terawatt hours from hyperscale facilities, 200–250 terawatt hours from cryptocurrency mining, and 100–150 terawatt hours from private enterprise facilities, including telecommunications, government, banking, and similar sectors. This increase isn't just a matter of more data centers coming online; it's also about the increasing demands placed on these facilities due to advancements in technology and greater digital activity globally.
How significant is the impact of AI on data center energy demands?
The role of AI in escalating energy demands of data centers is profound but still unfolding. The process of training large language models, for example, consumes tens of gigawatt hours per training session. As these models become integral to more sectors and their applications expand, the energy demands will rise exponentially. It's crucial to recognize that while the full impact isn't yet felt, the trajectory points to a significant increase in energy consumption linked directly to AI advancements.
What are some misconceptions about data centers and their energy consumption?
A common misconception is that data centers are the main culprits behind rising energy consumption. In reality, the energy use attributed to these facilities is significantly driven by consumer behavior—how we stream videos, use social media, and more. Data centers are built and consume energy to support this demand. It’s vital to reorient our perspective and focus on educating the public about how their digital habits directly impact energy consumption.
Can you elaborate on the sustainability initiatives and research projects your team is involved in?
Our team at the UEL EC Lab is deeply engaged in multiple sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of digital infrastructures. We've conducted extensive research across Europe, funded by both governmental bodies and private organizations, to assess and optimize energy use in data centers. Our focus extends beyond research; we are actively involved in shaping policies and raising public awareness about the environmental impacts of digital technologies through educational content and broader public engagements.
What are the future trends and technologies that could redefine data center operations?
Looking ahead, several key trends and technologies are poised to redefine how data centers operate. The integration of renewable energy sources is paramount, as is the advancement of technologies like liquid cooling, which allows for more efficient management of higher-density setups. Additionally, AI will play a crucial role in optimizing operations and maintenance, making data centers not only more energy-efficient but also more adaptable to fluctuating demands.
How do educational programs and partnerships help in shaping the future workforce for data centers?
Educational programs and industry partnerships are critical for preparing a workforce that can meet the future demands of data centers. Through initiatives like Ada Infrastructure’s boot camp, we're addressing the immediate need for skilled personnel while also paving the way for a sustainable pipeline of talent. Partnerships with leading firms provide real-world insights that ensure our curriculum remains cutting-edge, equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Closing Thoughts:
This discussion highlights the dynamic interplay between technology, consumer behavior, and sustainability in the realm of data centers. As we look to the future, it becomes increasingly clear that our collective actions and innovations will shape the trajectory of digital infrastructure's environmental impact.
To learn more about Ada Infrastructure, please visit www.adainfra.com
University of East London
Professor Bashroush, a distinguished expert in digital infrastructure and sustainability, provides strategic advisory to public and private sector IT Infrastructure transformation projects, covering consolidation, cloud adoption, resiliency, and sustainability. He was named in the UK Universities top 100 Best Breakthrough list for his work on energy conservation in ICT and received the Industry Initiative of the Year DCD Global Awards 2018. He led European initiatives such as EURECA and the European Commission DG CONNECT SmartCities research cluster. Professor Bashroush advised and supported various governments, including the UK, Ireland, and the European Commission. He chairs the Telecom sector committee at the British Standards Institute (BSI) covering IT Infrastructure standardization, working with CEN/CENELEC/ETSI as well as ISO/IEC. His work has influenced several international policies and legislation. With over 100 scientific papers published, Professor Bashroush is a leading voice in the field.
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