Note: Data not reported for Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia.
Summary and Analysis
The charts above highlight the water usage efficiency of data centers across the EU. A key question arises: what could explain the remarkable water efficiency of Finland's and Latvia's data centers?
- Climate: Both Finland and Latvia have cool climates, which could reduce the need for water-intensive cooling methods. However, this doesn't explain why Sweden, with a similar climate, isn't as water-efficient.
- Cooling Methods: This suggests that different cooling technologies may be in play. While Finland has abundant fresh water, their high efficiency might point towards advanced air-cooling systems or other innovative, low-water techniques.
- Data Center Type: The specific types of data centers in each country could also be a factor. For example, some may be focused on tasks that are less heat-intensive, or they may be newer facilities built with a stronger emphasis on sustainability.