White Paper on Global Data Center Siting Policy and Practice
Upcoming April 2025
The rapid growth of data centers to support AI advancements and digital transformation has brought about significant challenges and opportunities, particularly in the areas of energy sourcing, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance. Our White Paper on Global Data Center Siting Policy and Practice provides a comprehensive analysis of key factors influencing the development, siting, and operation of data centers worldwide, offering actionable insights for policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders.
This white paper explores critical dimensions of data center siting, including:
Location Selection: Evaluating optimal locations based on climate conditions, land use, and energy availability to maximize operational efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
Energy Sources: Examining the transition to renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and nuclear power, to meet sustainability goals while addressing grid reliability and resilience.
Infrastructure Design: Assessing rack density, cooling technologies, and water usage, with a focus on minimizing resource consumption and supporting sustainable practices.
Regulations and Incentives: Analyzing state and local permitting processes, zoning requirements, tax incentives, and interconnection agreements to streamline development and promote green initiatives.
Case Studies and Practical Insights The white paper features case studies such as Meta's AI-focused data center in Cheyenne, Wyoming, which incorporates renewable energy and advanced water-saving measures, and the hyperscale Edgecore Data Center in Culpeper, Virginia, which employs cutting-edge air-cooling systems. These examples highlight innovative strategies for balancing economic, environmental, and regulatory considerations.
By combining global best practices and emerging trends, this white paper serves as a roadmap for fostering sustainable and efficient data center development. It offers a detailed understanding of the policies and practices needed to drive forward the next generation of data infrastructure while addressing urgent sustainability challenges.