The EU's Data Center Rating Scheme: Energy and Water Efficiency from 2027
The Commission’s proposed scheme will rate data centers consuming more than 500 kW, considering both their energy consumption and what they re-use or return to the grid.
"Tripling our data center capacity cannot mean tripling the pressure on our grids, our water and our energy bills," stated Teresa Ribera, the Commission’s executive vice-president for clean, just, and competitive transition.
While the EU aims to triple its data center capacity within five to seven years, focusing on technological independence, the International Energy Agency projects a significant rise in electricity consumption by 2030, with data centers accounting for more than 3% of all electricity consumed in Europe.
This delegated regulation will be reviewed by the European Parliament and Council over the next two months, after which individual data centers will be labeled in 2027. A review of its effectiveness is planned for the end of 2028.
The proposal emphasizes transparency more than imposing restrictions, as minimum performance standards are currently under consultation, with a deadline of December 14th. The Commission is also collaborating with data center operators, grid operators, and energy suppliers through a tripartite agreement to be finalized later this year.
"Digital sovereignty must go hand in hand with energy responsibility," said energy commissioner Dan Jørgensen, highlighting the EU's commitment to both technological advancement and sustainable practices.