Large data centers are integral to advancing next-generation technologies, including large language models (LLMs) and AI. However, their environmental impact has raised concerns. Microsoft researchers stress the urgent need to understand these implications to help organizations set and achieve their sustainability goals.

In a recent publication, they highlight that liquid cooling technologies are becoming increasingly effective, reporting potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, energy demand, and water usage by 15% to 82% through advanced cooling methods.

To meet global sustainability targets—like reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2030—data centers must address their substantial energy consumption, which is 10 to 50 times greater per square foot than typical office buildings. In 2020, data centers accounted for approximately 1.5% of global electricity demand, a figure that is expected to rise. Cooling systems alone can account for about 40% of a data center’s total energy usage.

The researchers employed life cycle assessment (LCA) to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of different cooling technologies, including cold plate and one-phase and two-phase immersion cooling. This comprehensive approach allows for sustainable design considerations in cloud data centers.

They examined three types of cooling systems:

1. Cold Plate Cooling: A system where a metal plate transfers heat directly from the chip to a coolant loop. This method achieved greenhouse gas reductions of 15-16%, energy savings of 15%, and decreased water usage by 31-50%.

2. One-Phase Immersion Cooling: This approach submerges servers in dielectric fluid, where convection transfers heat. It resulted in greenhouse gas reductions of 13-16%, energy savings of 15%, and water savings of 45-80%.

3. Two-Phase Immersion Cooling: Similar to one-phase immersion but uses a fluid that vaporizes at a lower boiling point. This method reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 20-21%, energy consumption by 20%, and water use by 48-82%.

The researchers noted additional water savings when liquid cooling was combined with 100% renewable energy sources due to their lower water consumption.

While each cooling method has its advantages and drawbacks, the study indicated that cold plate systems are easier to retrofit and provide effective chip-level cooling. However, traditional air cooling remains the most energy-intensive option. One-phase immersion cooling is noted for its strong environmental benefits and lower complexity, though it requires careful handling of flammable hydrocarbon oils.

On the other hand, two-phase immersion cooling maximizes energy and water efficiency but faces scrutiny due to potential regulatory challenges related to harmful substances it uses.

Essentially, liquid cooling not only reduces cooling overhead but also increases server density, leading to lower costs per workload and improved system reliability. These systems are particularly well-suited for the high-density infrastructure required by AI workloads.

Research indicates that all three liquid cooling technologies can potentially compete in efficiency, thus offering various options for organizations looking to improve sustainability in their data centers.

When adopting these technologies, Microsoft researchers advise conducting thorough environmental and safety analyses and engaging with fluid vendors to address compliance risks. Monitoring the performance and longevity of server components is also critical in making informed decisions regarding cooling infrastructure.

In summary, liquid cooling technologies present a significant opportunity to enhance the sustainability of data centers, an essential consideration in the face of an ever-increasing demand for processing power and energy efficiency.

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