Skip to main content Tech Radar Pro Tech Radar Gaming Tech Radar Pro TechRadar the business technology experts Search TechRadar View Profile België (Nederlands) Deutschland North America US (English) Australasia New Zealand Expert Insights Website builders Web hosting Best web hosting Best website builder Best office chairs Expert Insights New research claims the data center industry has a long way to go on sustainability Craig Hale 25 April 2025 Data centers need to work better with energy suppliers, report claims When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Future) Aggreko study finds most data center managers agree sustainability is more important than three years ago Battery energy storage systems and future fuels are favorites across the UK&I Collaboration with energy suppliers could help tackle some hurdles One-third of UK data centers managers and over 40% in Ireland cite reducing environmental impact as their top concern, but the reality is that there's still a long way to go. According to new data from an Aggreko survey, reassuringly, 73% in the UK and 96% in Ireland say sustainability has become more important today than it was three years ago, suggesting data centers might be heading in the right direction. However, even though attentions have shifted onto sustainability, data center managers are facing a number of barriers preventing them from becoming greener. You may like What data centers should consider to establish more sustainable operations Sustainability Week: Scaling AI - how the UK’s hyperscale data centers are evolving for sustainability and growth Data centers are far from being sustainable High upfront costs to adopt greener tech were cited by 48% in the UK and 42% in Ireland – a trend that could possible continue to grow as the world's economies continue to battle it out. Around a quarter of respondents also noted that biofuels are not easily accessible. Looking ahead, we're likely to see regional differences on a much more local scale. Companies are already exploring exploiting the world's climates to improve sustainability, such as locating data centers in colder regions where cooling puts less stress on the environment, but even the UK and Ireland are preferring slightly different strategies. In the UK, respondents showd a preference for battery energy storage systems (BESS), allowing them to store harness the power of green energy, but Irish respondents noted a higher preferences for future fuels like hydrogen or biomethanol. Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed! Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. Aggreko also revealed the influencing factors can vary wildly – legislation is the main driver for sustainable options in the UK, but Irish respondents noted a desire to lower carbon emissions. Looking ahead, Aggreko calls for closer collaboration between data centers companies and energy suppliers. "It is vital they work together with a trusted and reliable energy supplier that understands the industry’s challenges," Aggreko Global Sector Head for Data Centers Billy Durie said. You might also like Consider switching to the best green web hosting Data centers are behind the best AI tools and best AI writers you use AI demand is causing huge sustainability problems - and hard drives over SSDs could be the answer With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value! You must confirm your public display name before commenting Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name. 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