A recent report by McKinsey & Company projects that power consumption by data centres in Europe is expected to triple by 2030, escalating from the current 10 gigawatts (GW) to 35 GW. This surge underscores the increasing digitalization across the continent and highlights the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions to support this growth.
The study, encompassing the European Union, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, indicates that data centre power consumption could reach 150 terawatt hours (TWh) by 2030, a significant rise from approximately 62 TWh today. To meet this burgeoning demand, an estimated $250 billion in investment will be required, focusing on infrastructure development and the integration of low-carbon energy sources.
This anticipated growth is driven by the proliferation of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), all of which necessitate substantial data processing capabilities. As data centres become integral to Europe’s digital economy, stakeholders are emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts.
Industry leaders advocate for the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, the utilization of renewable energy sources, and the implementation of innovative cooling solutions to reduce carbon footprints. Collaborations between governments, private enterprises, and research institutions are deemed essential to develop policies and frameworks that promote sustainability in the data centre sector.
The report serves as a clarion call for proactive measures to ensure that Europe’s digital transformation aligns with its environmental commitments, balancing technological advancement with ecological responsibility.