EU to rate data centres on energy and water from 2027

The European Commission has proposed a rating scheme grading data centres on energy and water use and on what they give back: recovered heat, clean generation and demand flexibility. Sites drawing over 500 kW are covered, labels apply from 2027, with a review due by end-2028.

• Scope covers data centres drawing more than 500 kW
• EU data centres used about 68 TWh in 2024, forecast to hit 114 TWh by 2030
• Rating includes recovered heat, clean generation and demand flexibility
• Parliament and Council have two months to object; standards consultation ends December 14