Cooling data centres – F-gas regulation compliance
Protecting data centre performance amidst F-gas regulatory changes
Data centres play a crucial role in our digital society, supporting critical technologies such as AI, 5G, and cloud computing. However, their environmental impact is increasingly under scrutiny, one aspect being the use of fluorinated gases (F-gases).
In the data centre industry, as in many other energy-intensive sectors, F-gases are widely used due to their efficiency and reliability. They remain essential to ensure the safe, stable, and energy-efficient operation of vital infrastructure, including high-voltage (HV) and medium-voltage (MV) electrical switchgear (SF₆), cooling systems (HFC refrigerants), and fire suppression systems (HFC gas and foams). By preventing overheating, reducing fire risks, and ensuring uninterrupted power supply, these gases help data centres avoid costly downtime.
At Aggreko, we understand operational priorities and the importance of maintaining continuous, reliable cooling. Our solutions are designed specifically to help data centres navigate the complex transition away from high-GWP refrigerants smoothly, keeping their operations stable and compliant as regulations evolve.
Understanding the impact of new F-gas regulations
The European Union has implemented stringent regulations (EU Regulation 517/2014) aimed at phasing out F-gases by 2050 due to their high Global Warming Potential (GWP). While fluorinated gases do not deplete the ozone layer like CFCs, their environmental impact is severe, with their GWP being thousands of times higher than CO₂. When released into the atmosphere, F-gases can persist for millennia, exacerbating climate change. To mitigate this, recent regulations mandate a gradual reduction in F-gas use, encouraging the adoption of more environmentally friendly alternatives.
Key measures include:
- Phase down of high-GWP refrigerants: The EU aims to reduce F-gas sales by nearly 95% by 2030, compared to 2015 levels. Refrigerants with high GWP will be banned from use in new equipment, with exemptions for certain low-temperature applications.
- Tightened restrictions on existing equipment: As of January 2025, refrigeration systems containing F-gases with a GWP above 2,500 will no longer be allowed to be serviced or recharged, creating a challenge for legacy infrastructures.
- Enhanced leak detection and maintenance requirements: Stricter regulations now require companies to install leak detectors and adhere to more frequent inspections. Failure to comply may result in fines. These measures aim to minimise harmful emissions and improve the overall sustainability of refrigeration systems.
- These changes not only affect equipment manufacturers and refrigeration operators but also require businesses to adapt to a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape focused on environmental responsibility.
Discover more about F-gas with our dediated FAQ
FAQ
What are the challenges for data centres?
Operators must plan for the replacement or modernisation of their cooling systems. Although alternative solutions are available, they are not yet produced in sufficient quantities to meet demand.
Rising global temperatures put additional strain on cooling systems. Data centres relying on free cooling may reach their operational limits during heatwaves.
Maintaining existing equipment is becoming increasingly complex, with strict regulations on refrigerant use and availability of spare parts.
Structural changes require significant investment and careful planning to avoid service disruptions.
Applications
Cooling methods used in data centres
A data centre’s cooling infrastructure is critical, with different methods suited to specific locations and uses, whether air or liquid cooling. AI data centres, in particular, are increasingly adopting liquid cooling systems due to their efficiency in handling high-density workloads.
As data centres transition to more sustainable cooling methods, understanding the various techniques available is essential:
- Free cooling: This energy-efficient method utilises fresh air blended with recirculated air to cool server spaces. While free cooling itself is typically open-loop, it can be integrated into a closed-loop system when the recirculated air is cooled through indirect heat exchangers. It is particularly effective in colder climates but can be limited during heatwaves when ambient temperatures rise above 25°C.
- Liquid cooling: Increasingly used in AI data centres, liquid cooling systems use water or dielectric fluids to dissipate heat more efficiently than traditional air-based systems. These systems are typically closed-loop, circulating the coolant through pipes and heat exchangers to maintain efficiency and prevent contamination. This method is essential for high-density workloads where air cooling is insufficient.
- Evaporative cooling: Uses water evaporation to reduce temperatures and enhance cooling efficiency. This method is typically open-loop, where water is evaporated into the air, but can be modified into a closed-loop system in certain setups to conserve water and improve sustainability.
Solutions
How can Aggreko support the transition?
To address these challenges, Aggreko’s temporary cooling solutions provide data centres with reliable and flexible support, ensuring seamless compliance with evolving F-gas regulations and uninterrupted operational performance.
Temporary and modular cooling solutions
Our systems ensure efficient cooling without operational downtime, particularly during emergencies or infrastructure upgrades.
Rapid deployment of alternative solutions
Our teams can quickly deploy backup cooling systems during heatwaves or unforeseen failures.
Expert guidance and consultation
Aggreko works closely with operators to plan their transition towards more sustainable infrastructure, providing technical audits and tailored solutions.
Energy consumption optimisation
Our solutions integrate cutting-edge technology to reduce energy consumption and minimise the carbon footprint of data centres.
Load testing and commissioning
Our solutions can be used for testing new cooling infrastructure before full deployment, ensuring efficiency and compliance.
Power support for cooling systems
Aggreko provides temporary power solutions to ensure cooling systems remain operational, even during grid instability or maintenance periods.
Manage costs
Aggreko's temporary solutions help data centres avoid significant upfront investment (CAPEX) in new cooling infrastructure, allowing them to transition smoothly while maintaining financial flexibility.
Conclusion
The phase down of F-gases represents a major turning point for the data centre industry, requiring complex structural transformations. However, with a well-defined strategy and the support of partners such as Aggreko, operators can ensure a smooth transition while remaining compliant with regulatory requirements.
Our temporary cooling solutions, strategic consultancy, and rapid response capabilities enable operators to maintain performance without compromising their commitment to sustainability.
Get in touch to learn how Aggreko can help you anticipate these changes and ensure the continuity of your operations.