Assessment of Data Center Energy Efficiency. Methods and Metrics

This paper proposes an assessment method for Operational Data center regarding energy efficiency. Data centers are the main part of information and communication architecture. The energy consumed in Data Centers is increasing according with the information technology and communications evolution. It can be reduced up to 40% with applying measures and strategies for energy-efficiency system management. Data centers are complex systems consisting in buildings and construction, facilities and utilities, energy and technic systems in operation. The challenge is to identify the areas that shall be improved, an objective assessment method for Operational Data Center energy efficiency is the most useful. The assessment methods and quantitative measurement for energy efficiency improvement are also important to be aligned with International Strategy in Europe and America for Energy Efficiency improvement goals to reduce the consumption in all economic sectors, including Information Technology and Communications (Data centers). Reducing data centers energy consumption is also a way to achieve energy efficiency in the buildings that host the specific facility, aligned with current standards and regulations.