The Rising Importance of Data Centers and AI
As artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers continue to grow, Mexico faces a dual challenge: ensuring energy security while advancing sustainability.
With Gustavo Pérez, Director of Sales for Major Accounts at Vertiv, stating that data centers currently account for 1-2% of global energy consumption, this figure is expected to double by 2030. The arrival of graphics processing units (GPUs) has significantly increased the demand for data center energy, as these circuits are designed for massive calculations in AI and machine learning.
Mexico’s Opportunity Amidst the Challenge
According to the Mexican Data Centers Association, Mexico currently has an installed capacity of 235 megawatts (MW) in data centers, with 74 MW under construction and 1,516 MW planned for 2030.
Pérez emphasizes that this presents a significant opportunity for Mexico to gain global relevance. However, the main challenge lies in investing more in energy infrastructure to capitalize on this moment.
He highlights the need for data centers near government-driven development poles to enhance technological competitiveness across various industries.
Sustainability in Data Centers
One of the most critical aspects for data centers is cooling, which accounts for 40-50% of their energy consumption. Efficient cooling solutions allow better utilization of available energy and reduced costs, according to Pérez.
Contrary to popular belief, water consumption is not a continuous issue. Water is only needed initially to fill cooling circuits; once operational, no additional water is required.
To meet the growing processing demand, advanced technologies such as direct liquid cooling, hybrid air-liquid, and immersion systems are now in use.
Pérez also notes that some sustainable solutions enable heat recovery and reuse, further strengthening corporate sustainability programs.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is driving the increased energy demand in data centers? The growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and the use of graphics processing units (GPUs) for massive calculations have significantly increased energy demand in data centers.
- What is Mexico’s current data center capacity? Mexico currently has an installed capacity of 235 megawatts (MW) in data centers, with 74 MW under construction and 1,516 MW planned for 2030.
- What are the main challenges for data centers regarding energy consumption? Cooling is a critical aspect, accounting for 40-50% of energy consumption. Efficient cooling solutions and advanced technologies like direct liquid cooling are essential to address this challenge.
- How does water consumption play a role in data centers? Water is primarily needed to fill cooling circuits initially; once operational, no additional water is required.
- What sustainable solutions are being implemented in data centers? Some sustainable solutions enable heat recovery and reuse, contributing to corporate sustainability programs.
