Large EU Data Centres Outperform Smaller Sites, New Standards to Raise Retrofit Costs
Analysis of over 700 European data centres shows very large facilities outperform smaller legacy sites in operational efficiency due to integrated infrastructure and optimized controls. European Commission plans to introduce an EU-wide rating scheme and Minimum Performance Standards within 12–18 months, potentially raising retrofit costs for older colocation sites.
1. Efficiency Divide by Scale
Over 700 European data centres show very large facilities outperform smaller legacy sites in operational efficiency thanks to integrated infrastructure and optimized controls.
2. Lifecycle and Retrofit Risks
New builds deliver top Water Usage Effectiveness, while peak Power Usage Effectiveness emerges in years 4–6; performance declines after six years, making retrofit pathways for older colocation sites critical for maintaining value.
3. Regulatory Outlook
European Commission plans to introduce an EU-wide rating scheme and Minimum Performance Standards within 12–18 months, targeting centres reliant on Guarantees of Origin and potentially raising retrofit and compliance costs.