Data Processing, Hosting and Related Activities
Operation of data centres providing hosting, cloud computing and data processing services with high energy efficiency and low-carbon energy sourcing.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation
The data centre must achieve a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.3 or below for existing facilities, or 1.2 or below for new builds, measured in accordance with EN 50600-4-2. The European Code of Conduct for Energy Efficiency in Data Centres must be implemented, with compliance verified through independent assessment.
The facility must source at least 80% of its electricity from renewable sources, either through direct procurement (Power Purchase Agreements), on-site generation, or verified Guarantees of Origin. Waste heat recovery must be implemented where technically and economically viable, with recovered heat supplied to district heating or other productive uses.
Cooling systems must not use refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) above 675. The facility must implement hot/cold aisle containment, free cooling where climate permits, and intelligent workload management to minimise energy consumption during low-demand periods.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Adaptation
A CRVA under Appendix A must assess risks from heat waves affecting cooling capacity, flooding, power grid instability, and water scarcity for cooling systems. Redundancy and resilience measures must be incorporated.
DNSH: Climate Change Adaptation
Physical climate risks must be assessed per Appendix A. The facility must include backup cooling capacity, flood protection, and uninterruptible power supply systems sized for projected climate extremes.
DNSH: Water and Marine Resources
Water consumption for cooling must be minimised. The facility must report Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) and achieve a WUE of 0.8 L/kWh or below. Water must not be abstracted from water-stressed areas without demonstrating that the abstraction is sustainable.
DNSH: Circular Economy
The facility must implement a hardware lifecycle management programme covering server refresh optimisation, component re-use, and responsible end-of-life recycling through certified WEEE processors. At least 70% of decommissioned hardware by weight must be prepared for re-use or recycling.
DNSH: Pollution Prevention and Control
Diesel backup generators must meet the latest emission standards and be tested in compliance with local noise and air quality regulations. Battery storage must use chemistries that minimise environmental and safety risks. Hazardous materials (UPS batteries, fire suppressants) must be handled and disposed of in compliance with applicable hazardous waste regulations.