Microsoft has unveiled a revolutionary step in eco-friendly technology with its new datacenter design that operates without consuming any water for cooling purposes.
Launched in August 2024, this initiative represents a major advancement in the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility, especially in areas facing heightened water scarcity.
The innovative datacenter utilizes chip-level cooling techniques to maintain optimal temperatures without depending on water evaporation. By implementing a closed-loop water recycling mechanism, water is perpetually cycled between servers and chillers, eliminating the requirement for a fresh water source after the initial filling. This cutting-edge method is projected to conserve over 125 million liters of water each year per datacenter, making a significant contribution to global water preservation efforts.
Microsoft evaluates its water efficiency using a metric called Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE), which assesses the water consumed for cooling and humidification in relation to energy usage. In the most recent fiscal year, Microsoft achieved a WUE of 0.30 L/kWh, reflecting a 39% improvement from 2021’s figure of 0.49 L/kWh.
This progress is the result of years of dedication, showcasing an 80% enhancement in WUE since the early 2000s. The shift to zero-water cooling systems is anticipated to bring WUE close to zero for the datacenters employing this technology.
Although the switch from evaporative cooling systems to mechanical ones leads to a minor rise in Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), Microsoft has rolled out high-efficiency economizing chillers that operate at higher water temperatures. This strategy mitigates the extra energy demand while upholding sustainable cooling methods. These systems embody a well-rounded approach to decreasing water reliance while optimizing energy efficiency.
Pilot implementations of the new zero-water evaporative designs are scheduled to commence in Phoenix, Arizona, and Mt. Pleasant, Wisconsin, in 2026. New datacenter designs expected to launch in late 2027 will incorporate zero-water cooling technology, propelling Microsoft’s mission to weave sustainability into its global framework.
Through its Datacenter Community Pledge, which focuses on safeguarding local watersheds, particularly in regions with rising water stress, Microsoft continues to spearhead sustainable innovation. This next-generation design not only minimizes the environmental impact of its operations but also establishes a new benchmark for the industry.
Source :Microsoft
