Energy Standard for Data Centers Proposed

With the increased focus on the potential energy draw of data centers, ASHRAE has proposed a new standard to help cut the consumption. The new guidelines would establish the minimum energy efficiency requirements of data centers for design, construction, and for implementation of a plan for operation, maintenance, and utilization of on- or off-site renewable energy resources. The new rule, Standard 90.4P Energy Standard for Data Centers and Telecommunications Buildings, would work in tandem with ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1, and would apply to new and renovated data centers or telecommunications buildings.

The proposed standard would create a performance-based measurement system designed to be flexible as current technology changes. While the 90.4P rule is partially based on the principles of power use effectiveness, ASHRAE is seeking comments on how to incorporate an operational metric such as PUE into its new design standard. The proposal is available for public review and comment until March 30.