Backlash over data centers tests Europe's AI ambitions
Massive data centers needed to run AI are triggering protests across Europe. Their operators counter that they boost digital sovereignty and energy independence.
Data centers have become a contentious topic in Europe as discussions surrounding artificial intelligence intensify. The primary concern is the location of these facilities, with many arguing that data should remain within European borders rather than be stored in the United States. While this preference for digital sovereignty will lead to increased consumption of the continent's resources, it introduces new challenges related to water and electricity use.
During the previous summer, Europe experienced its hottest on record, leading to water restrictions in several areas. As global temperatures continue to rise, concerns about water and electricity consumption of data centers are growing. Finland's national grid operator, Fingrid, predicts a nearly 40% increase in electricity consumption if all signed connection agreements are implemented.
The European Commission has introduced a new scheme to increase transparency on energy and water use, awarding efficiency grades to data centers with capacities above 500 kW. This considers both their contribution to the grid and potential waste heat reuse. However, the demand for data centers is shifting as existing markets grapple with power and grid infrastructure limitations.
New data centers are emerging in rural areas and less densely populated regions, such as Groningen in the Netherlands, Barcelona in Spain, and Brussels in Belgium. These locations are chosen due to their connectivity, proximity to users, and established ecosystems of specialized engineers. Protests have erupted against data centers in various locations, including Google's proposed facility in Kronstorf, Austria, and a massive data center in central France. Some officials have even resigned over these projects, citing a loss of power.
Some data center operators claim that facilities can be built with energy-saving measures, such as a cooling system in a Marseille project that uses 30% less power and consumes no water. Scandinavia has also implemented waste heat from servers into district heating networks. German energy company E.ON's survey suggests that 75% of people would prefer data centers to be located near residential areas if they fed waste heat into the heating network.
Supporters argue that European data centers not only bolster digital sovereignty but also enhance energy independence.
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