When cloud computing became a reality, many welcomed a new technology that appeared to save time and money.
But as the cloud became ubiquitous among business and personal computers and devices, critics noted that data centres holding information for the cloud required enormous outlays of energy that entailed significant carbon emissions.
That’s now changing, especially in Europe, according to eWeek, a trade magazine.
Focusing on the Dutch firm Interxion, the magazine noted how the company is using sustainable energy, water and taking other measures to reduce its carbon footprint.
“As a preeminent data centres provider in Europe, Interxion is among the leaders in both efficient energy practices and the use of renewable energy, showing that being green is a crucial way to win customers in the EU,” the magazine wrote.
But Interxion has also pioneered individual projects tailored to locations throughout Europe.
In Sweden, the company is using its excess heat to warm homes. In Denmark, the company is using geo-energy to cool its systems. The company’s Irish facilities use “free air cooling”, or storing cold air from outside in order to cool servers that would otherwise run hot.
“Interxion’s efficient and sustainable facilities have changed the conversation about data centres,” wrote eWeek Editor-in-Chief Chris Preimesberger. “Once feared as a source of pollution, data centres are now embraced for their energy contributions to surrounding communities.”
Image credit: Phil Rogers via Flickr
