Performance vs sustainability: Data center cooling challenge

In an age where artificial intelligence and high-performance computing are pushing data centers to their thermal limits, traditional air cooling is no longer enough to satisfy rising demands. The industry is facing a clear turning point: air cooling just can’t keep up. As the processing power continues to rise, so does the need for efficient cooling strategies. However, at the same time, the industry is facing growing pressure to comply with emerging sustainability regulations and minimise their impact on the environment. At present, reaching both optimal performance and optimal sustainability remains a significant challenge... So, it will be up to the data center operators to define the optimal compromise between the letters.


In this deep-dive, you will learn about the two leading approaches—direct-to-chip and immersion cooling—and understand what it really takes to implement them at scale. From CDU selection and infrastructure planning to optimizing PUE and leveraging waste heat, the paper gives a clear view of both the technical and environmental advantages. Finally, the research compares real-world configurations through 3 case studies that show how smart design choices can balance performance, efficiency, and cost.
 

Whether you’re planning future infrastructure or advising clients, this paper offers a solid foundation on where cooling is headed and why the shift to liquid is no longer optional.