A Review of current practices and challenges in Green Data Centers: renewable energy sources, waste heat recovery, and intelligent management systems

Authors: M. Boscariol, E. Cacciaguerra, P. Gasbarri, D. Accardo, S. Meschini and L. C. Tagliabue

Abstract: As digital transformation advances, Data Centers are crucial in supporting global digital infrastructure but contribute substantially to energy consumption and carbon emissions. Green Data Center technologies emerged to address such sustainability challenges, integrating energy-efficient designs, renewable energy, and waste heat recovery solutions. The review explores advancements in sustainable Data Centers, focusing on Building Information Modelling (BIM), Digital Twins (DTs), and intelligent management systems, that help mitigating environmental impacts. BIM and DTs support real-time monitoring, predictive analysis, and optimized energy management, helping operators minimize cooling needs, reduce inefficiencies, and maximize renewable energy use. The interest in renewable energy sources such as solar power is increasing, highlighting hydrogen fuel cells potential in providing a scalable, low-emission alternative to conventional backup power. Waste heat recovery also plays a crucial role in Green Data Centers, with initiatives repurposing heat for district heating, industrial processes, and building heating. Current applications include Data Centers where heat recovery systems supply residential heating, support algae farms, and enhance university campus efficiency. Beyond energy efficiency, Green Data Centers contribute to smart grid stability. Load-shifting capabilities enable power usage to be adjusted during peak and off-peak times, enhancing grid resilience and promoting sustainability. Future trends include AI-driven resource management, further carbon footprint reduction via green energy procurement, and advanced load distribution strategies. The review synthesizes current research and practices, showcasing sustainable technologies in Green Data Centers presenting case studies of successful implementations. It also highlights promising applications and existing challenges in achieving carbon-neutral infrastructures.

Keywords: Green Data Center, Sustainability, Energy efficiency, Digital Twin, Waste-heat recovery

It can also be downloaded from publishers website: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10974850