With the global demand for data centers on the rise, driven by AI and decentralization of digital infrastructure, operators are under increasing pressure to balance performance, sustainability, and compliance. In Europe and Asia, the trend towards smaller, locally distributed facilities is gaining momentum due to concerns over data sovereignty and security.
Water management has become a crucial factor in this competitive landscape, as cooling alone can contribute significantly to a data center’s energy costs. Communities are also raising concerns about the environmental impact of these facilities, particularly in terms of water usage and energy consumption.
Water plays a vital role in data centers, from rooftop renewables to wastewater treatment. Strategic water system design is crucial for operational efficiency, environmental responsibility, and cost control.
Prior to the IoT Tech Expo in Amsterdam, we interviewed Dario Menini and Igor Chodaton from Xylem, a global leader in water technology. Xylem, known for its high-performance pumps and fluid management technologies under the Lowara brand, is expanding its integrated water solutions in Europe to meet the unique needs of data center infrastructure.
Xylem goes beyond component supply, offering a full-service model for data center operators, builders, and consultants. Their solutions cover cooling, heat recovery, HVAC, firefighting, and wastewater management, making them a one-stop shop for water and thermal systems in modern data centers.
Xylem’s expertise in large-scale water recovery projects, such as collaborations with AWS, positions them well to address Europe’s regulatory and environmental challenges. Their local presence enables faster response times and tailored support for regional requirements.
One notable initiative by Xylem is the implementation of heat distribution systems that transfer excess heat from data centers to nearby communities for heating, creating a circular system that benefits both the environment and local residents.
With a deep understanding of Europe’s regulatory landscape, Xylem helps data center operators navigate evolving legislation to ensure compliance and future-proof investments. Sustainability is now a key aspect of data center strategy, making expertise in water and heat management essential.
Interested in learning more about data centers from industry leaders? Explore Data Centre Congress in Amsterdam, California, and London, part of the TechEx series. Visit here for event details.
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