We all know that data centres consume a lot of electricity and have

an increasingly large carbon footprint. However, it’s always a bit of a shock when research is published that indicates how high these figures are. Most of the time they require some further analysis, as the parameters that are measured can vary.

 

One thing is pretty much universally agreed though, and that’s the important role that renewable energy should have in data centre design and operation. With that in mind, we’ve asked a panel of experts to examine what can be done to increase the sustainability of data centres and whether the sector as a whole is guilty of failing to address the challenge of reducing its environmental impact. CLICK HERE to read their comments.

 

On a related subject, in this issue we have a special feature dedicated to energy management. Richard Wellbrock of Colt Data Centre Services looks at how data centre providers are embracing energy efficiency and then Dean Boyle of EkkoSense goes on to explain why he thinks that greater attention should be paid to energy management. CLICK HERE for Richard’s article and to read Dean’s CLICK HERE.

 

Copper network cabling is fascinating for many reasons – not least because it continues to evolve in new and interesting ways. Standardisation is a vital part of the picture and in this issue James Withey, liaison officer between IEEE 802.3 and ISO/IEC SC25 WG3, explains how standards groups can progress in parallel, offering solutions to each to each other and harmonising as they progress. CLICK HERE to read his excellent article.

 

 

Rob Shepherd Editor