Intelligent Data Centres Issue 27 | Page 64

IT IS THE DESIGN OF THESE SYSTEMS WHICH OFFERS END- USERS A TRULY PRACTICAL MEANS OF ENSURING SUSTAINABILITY AT THE EDGE .
UNCOVERING THE LAYERS
In terms of data , the model utilises a capacity analysis created by IDC in 2019 . From this model , Schneider Electric was able to derive the likely ratio of centralised data centres versus Edge IT load in 2021 , which was split between 65 % at the centre and 35 % at the Edge . When predicting energy usage in 2040 , the respective default ratios are 44 % and 56 %.
Based on these assumptions , the growth rate for centralised and Edge data centres is calculated at 6 % and 11 % annually . The tool allows these values to be adjusted by the user to reflect differing growth rates as conditions and / or assumptions change .
To derive the non-IT energy consumed by activities such as cooling and lighting , PUE values are estimated based on the assumption that as technology continues to evolve or becomes more efficient via future generations , anticipated PUE ratings will also improve . For example , the tool ’ s default values assumes that a centralised data centre ’ s PUE will improve from 1.35 in 2021 to 1.25 in 2040 , and

IT IS THE DESIGN OF THESE SYSTEMS WHICH OFFERS END- USERS A TRULY PRACTICAL MEANS OF ENSURING SUSTAINABILITY AT THE EDGE .

that the average PUE of Edge Computing facilities will improve from 2.0 in 2021 to 1.5 in 2040 .
PUE ratios are also adjustable , meaning the user can leverage the tool under different possible scenarios to see the impact that Edge Computing has on energy consumption and carbon impact .
Final thoughts
With dependency on mission-critical infrastructure continuing to increase at a dramatic rate , it ’ s crucial that energy efficiency and sustainability become critical factors in the rollout of Edge Computing infrastructure . Greater accuracy , especially in terms of energy use , is essential and operators cannot afford to hit and hope , or become more efficient as they go .
While energy management software remains critical , it is the design of these systems which offers end-users a truly practical means of ensuring sustainability at the Edge . It requires greater standardisation , modularity , resilience , performance and efficiency to form the building blocks of Edge environments .
Further , by considering energy efficient deployment methodologies and embracing a culture of continuous innovation , operators can choose a more sustainable approach to Edge Computing . ◊
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