Library & Tools

In December 2009, The Green Grid conducted a brief survey to learn more about the number and nature of unused servers currently running in data centers. Results showed that only one-fifth of data center operators attempt to identify unused servers as part of their regular day-to-day operations. Those respondents who do look have an average of 10 percent unused servers in their data centers. Knowing whether servers are being well-used for productive work, and turning off those that are not, will help data centers be more energy efficient, reduce redundant infrastructure, and avoid unnecessary spending and environmental impact.

The purpose of this document is to provide recommendations on measuring and publishing values for PUE at dedicated data center facilities. These recommendations represent the collective work of a task force representing 7x24 Exchange, ASHRAE, The Green Grid, Silicon Valley Leadership Group, U.S. Department of Energy Save Energy Now Program, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR Program, United States Green Building Council, and Uptime Institute. The recommendations are prepared in accordance with the guiding principles discussed in the paper. The task force continues to work towards a Version 2 document, which will provide corresponding guidance for mixed-use buildings.