Data centres & the planet. Can we have both?
The data centre market in Saudi Arabia is a rapidly growing sector, with a projected CAGR of 19.88%, reaching an estimated 854.81 MW by 2029.
This growth is being driven by factors such as rapid digitalisation, cloud adoption, and 5G implementation. The majority of data centres in Saudi Arabia are located in Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah, with 35 data centres currently operational across 8 markets.
To meet the growing demand for data centre services, while also addressing environmental concerns, the Saudi government has introduced several sustainability initiatives. These include the Data Centre Services Regulations, which came into effect on January 1, 2024. The regulations set clear sustainability requirements for data centre operators, including:
- Energy Management: data centres must implement robust energy management plans to optimise energy use and reduce consumption. This includes measures such as using energy-efficient equipment, implementing power management systems, and utilising renewable energy sources.
- Carbon Emissions: data centre operators are required to develop strategies to minimise their carbon footprint. This can involve using cleaner energy sources, implementing carbon offset programs, and adopting technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- E-Waste Management: The regulations emphasise the importance of responsible e-waste management. Data centres must have protocols in place for the proper disposal and recycling of electronic waste, minimising environmental impact.
The environmental challenges in the region
Data centres in Saudi Arabia face unique environmental challenges due to the region’s arid climate and water scarcity. These challenges include:
High energy consumption for cooling: the hot climate necessitates significant energy use for cooling systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures within data centres. This high energy demand can strain power grids, increase reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, impacting air quality and public health.
Water scarcity: water scarcity poses challenges for traditional cooling methods that rely on water for evaporation. This can put pressure on already limited water resources and exacerbate water stress in the region, potentially affecting other industries and communities.
Staterra’s expertise lies in helping data centre operators navigate these challenges and develop sustainable solutions that minimise environmental impact.
We specialise in designing and implementing innovative cooling technologies, water-saving strategies, and renewable energy solutions tailored to the specific needs of data centres in the region.
NEOM, a beacon of sustainability
The NEOM project, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious initiative to build a futuristic, sustainable city, presents a unique opportunity for the development of environmentally friendly data centres.
Powered entirely by renewable energy sources, NEOM aims to be a global hub for green technology and innovation. Staterra is actively involved in exploring opportunities to support the development of sustainable data centre infrastructure within NEOM, leveraging our expertise in environmental consulting and sustainable design.
Staterra’s role in sustainable data centre development
Staterra is a leading provider of environmental and sustainability consulting services to the data centre industry in KSA.
We help our clients navigate the complex regulatory landscape and develop sustainable data centre solutions that meet the needs of their businesses and the environment.
Our services include:
- Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): identifying and mitigating potential environmental impacts.
- Permitting and compliance: navigating the regulatory landscape and securing necessary permits.
- Sustainability consulting: implementing energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy solutions, and waste management strategies.
- Health, Safety, and Risk Management: ensuring a safe and healthy working environment.
A practical example: Environmental Baseline Survey in Dammam
We recently conducted a comprehensive Environmental Baseline Survey for a data centre project in Dammam, a key hub for data centre activity in Saudi Arabia. This survey encompassed a thorough assessment of air quality, noise levels, soil quality, and groundwater quality.
- Air Quality: we monitored key pollutants such as particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen oxides (NO2), and sulphur dioxide (SO2) to ensure compliance with national standards.
- Noise Levels: daytime and nighttime noise levels were measured to assess the project’s impact on the surrounding community and ensure adherence to regulatory limits.
- Soil Quality: soil samples were analysed for potential contamination, including hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and pesticides, to safeguard soil health and prevent environmental harm.
- Groundwater Quality: groundwater was tested for contaminants like ammonia and total organic carbon (TOC) to protect water resources and ensure sustainable water management practices.
Key findings and recommendations
Our survey revealed that while air quality and noise levels were largely within compliance, elevated ozone levels, attributed to regional sources, required attention. Additionally, the groundwater analysis indicated elevated ammonia and TOC levels, necessitating further investigation.
Based on these findings, Staterra provided actionable recommendations:
- Groundwater Investigation: we proposed additional studies to identify the specific sources of groundwater contamination and develop appropriate remediation strategies.
- Mitigation Measures: we outlined a range of mitigation measures to address the identified environmental concerns, ensuring the project’s alignment with sustainable development principles.
Staterra’s commitment to sustainability
Staterra’s expertise extends beyond environmental baseline surveys. We offer a comprehensive suite of services to support data centre projects throughout their lifecycle, from initial site selection and design to ongoing operations and management.
As Saudi Arabia’s data centre market continues to expand, Staterra is committed to providing the expertise and support needed to ensure that this growth is sustainable and environmentally responsible.
Our experience in conducting environmental baseline surveys, coupled with our comprehensive range of services, makes us the ideal partner for data centre projects seeking to achieve their sustainability goals while complying with the Kingdom’s stringent environmental regulations.
Partner with Staterra to build a greener, more sustainable future for data centres in Saudi Arabia.