Shedding Light on Energy Efficiency: LED Lighting in the Data Center Construction

Data centers are key facilities in this technology-driven world. As more users get on the internet, it’s imperative to manage the sector’s energy consumption. Electric utilities like lighting are a good way to start, as they are necessary in almost every building. Plus, energy-efficient options like LED lighting make the switch straightforward and simple.

The Importance of Energy Efficiency in Data Centers

Data centers are responsible for many internet operations, storage systems, servers, routers and other components. Since the whole world uses them, they operate 24/7. The International Energy Agency says facilities of this nature account for up to 1.5% of global electricity use.

While the figure seems small, keep in mind that electricity generation uses fossil fuels. These processes are responsible for about 40% of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions, so each percent matters.

Technology is only bound to grow even further in the future. To minimize emissions, data centers should adopt more efficient electrical utilities like LED lighting as early as now.

Advantages of LED Lighting

LED lighting is gaining plenty of traction for residential and commercial spaces due to its efficiency. Data centers can also look forward to other advantages such as longevity, durability, quality and so much more.

1. Energy Efficiency

LED lighting is an eco-friendly way to illuminate a space. It utilizes 90% less power than traditional lighting. Lighting accounts for 17% of electricity in commercial buildings in the United States. Energy conservation can go a long way toward contributing to sustainability.

LED lights focus on generating light, whereas incandescent lighting needs to generate both heat and light. It also saves power in terms of materials. Their composition ensures the light is emitted in a specific direction, reducing dependence on reflectors and diffusers. A data center needs to cover a large square foot efficiently, so this is quite ideal.

2. Longevity and Durability

Data centers will be running for hours on end. With people running late shifts on the premises, lighting needs to keep up. Luckily, LED bulbs can last about 15 times longer than conventional options.

LED lighting is also durable, as it has sturdy components like epoxy lenses compared to other options dependent on glass. This swap means they are more resistant to force and shock. Data facilities stationed in terrain with strong climates can keep operating with lights on.

3. Better Cost Efficiency

Since LED lighting is great at conserving electricity, data centers can also regulate their power bills in the long run. Obtaining and installing LED lighting is pretty straightforward. Thus, you get the returns without making such a high-risk investment.

Cost efficiency is a key factor in adopting LED lighting. Data centers will likely reach 35GW of power by 2030 due to AI services and their power requirements. Since this will entail more expenses in the future, it’s best to look at avenues for savings now.

4. Less Heat Production

Conventional lighting requires heat generation to build up light, but LEDs prioritize illumination. Their bulbs are cool to the touch. Data centers won’t have to worry about any heat input that can affect their facilities’ internal temperatures.

The lack of heat production also decreases fire hazard risks in the long run. Data centers hold plenty of sensitive information, and various spaces on the internet depend on their operations. The lower the probability of such accidents, the better.

4. Good Light Quality

One of the biggest worries when changing electrical utilities is the quality will degrade. Data centers depend on lighting to provide visibility to various components to ensure they’re running optimally.

LED lighting still provides a good level of visibility. It can also be customized to emit various colors or a certain intensity. Aside from providing illumination, personalization can also contribute to great interior design. 

5. Government Incentives

Energy efficiency incentives are becoming increasingly popular as the world collectively tries to prioritize sustainability and minimize emissions. About 80% of the United States has an active commercial lighting rebate.

Other rebates would usually be redeemed and closed, as most commercial spaces gravitate toward efficient lighting. However, demand is softening, which allows later companies to catch up. Data centers can use these incentives when adopting LED products into their construction project.

6. Recyclability

LED lighting is also beneficial because it offers better recyclability. Compact fluorescent bulbs contain and emit mercury, which is dangerous for the environment and humans. If data centers have these lights, they can dispose of them properly by contacting their solid waste district to take them off their hands.

Alternatively, LEDs don’t contain potentially hazardous materials, so they have minimal environmental impact. Data centers are urged to send them to recycling locations, and professionals can deconstruct and separate the components for future use.

Implementing LED Lighting

LED lighting is ideal for new construction projects, where a proper lighting plan and wiring must be configured. It can also be integrated into existing data centers, but the current lighting system must be overhauled to accommodate the new components. The transition is a considerable expense, though cost savings from energy efficiency can make it worthwhile.

Remember to add enough strips to cover all rooms of a data center. Up to 25 strings of LEDs can be combined without overloading a wall socket. Going beyond that number will require extra power sources and detailed placement.

Consider personalizing some aspects of LED lighting. For instance, you can add automated controls to the strips. These features can adjust light intensity automatically and be programmed to turn off when no one is present, saving money.

Other Ways to Achieve Energy Efficiency

LED lighting can boost a data center’s efficiency. With the industry’s impact on global emissions, it’s key to strive for other ways to conserve those resources and minimize pollution. For instance, adopting renewable power can remove dependence on unclean electricity sources. Large companies like Amazon and Microsoft bought renewable electricity in 2021, but more need to follow suit.

Other aspects of electrical utilities can also be improved. For instance, data centers need reasonable cooling solutions, as equipment tends to heat up. Automated fans can regulate energy consumption while keeping technology intact.

Data facilities can also focus on planning and consolidating servers. Certain resources may get little use, so combining them into one can minimize power utilization. Compound this with an energy-efficient lighting system for maximum sustainability.

Integrate LED Lighting Into Data Center Construction

LED lighting is a significant step toward improving efficiency in the data center construction sector. It requires a minimal investment but maximizes benefits and returns in the long run. Implement these components along with other practices and electricity-saving solutions.