Data Centres in the Age of AI: Navigating the challenges of cost, climate, and operational reliability
Digitalisation continues to progress rapidly, and AI applications are booming – which means the demand for computing power is growing fast. For data centres, this leads to rising energy consumption, higher requirements for operational reliability, and a strong focus on energy efficiency and future readiness. Increasing costs need to be managed, while regulatory requirements – such as mandatory PUE reporting from 2025 – add extra pressure to implement sustainable and future-proof solutions.
Infrastructure demands are also rising
Power and cooling systems must be designed with high redundancy. Switching from traditional air cooling to more efficient liquid cooling is essential for achieving optimal values in Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) and Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE). This is the only way to ensure operational reliability, maintain availability, and avoid downtime.
In addition to cooling systems, other water infrastructure must also work reliably – from water distribution and pressure boosting in sanitary facilities, to hygienic wastewater management, and flexible fire-fighting solutions that safeguard both people and sensitive IT infrastructure.
Holistic solutions for efficiency and operational reliability
As a pioneer in sustainable and intelligent premium water technology, Wilo supports data centres in combining maximum operational reliability with energy and resource efficiency. Our offering covers the entire lifecycle – from design and implementation to maintenance – and is suitable for both new builds and the optimisation of existing systems.
Whether it is circulation pumps for cooling towers, direct-to-chip liquid cooling systems or heat recovery applications, our product solutions are specifically designed to optimise performance through continuous improvement in Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) and deliver return on investment.
We offer our customers much more than just pumps. We provide end to end solutions:
- Design and consultancy support
- Green energy solutions (H2 powerplant)
- Water security
- Condition-based monitoring and digital twin
- Aftermarket care and service
Maximise the performance of your data centre in the age of AI
Contact our experts now and let us help you find the best solution for your needs and optimised energy use. Simply fill out the form – we will contact you as soon as possible.
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Future readiness for data centres at the highest level
With Wilo, data centres gain far more than just efficient pump solutions. You benefit from noticeably lower operating costs, increased reliability, and the confidence of meeting current and future ESG and efficiency requirements. At the same time, our systems lay the foundation for stable, future-oriented operations in a dynamic and highly regulated market environment.
- Reduce costs: Lower energy consumption, reduce operational downtime, optimised PUE and WUE values, additional savings through heat recovery.
- Secure operations: Maximum availability through redundancy, predictive maintenance, and rapid diagnostics, reliable supply chains, as well as energy and water security.
- Boost resource efficiency: Fulfil the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and PUE reporting requirements, improve key performance indicators through energy solutions (PUE, WUE, ERF, REF, ERE).
- Shape the future: Scalable solutions for new and existing facilities, pioneering technologies, water digitisation, sustainability and decarbonisation.
This provides the investment and compliance assurance needed to operate your data centre economically, reliably, and with a focus on the future.
Our highlight solutions for data centres
In addition to cooling systems, we offer customised solutions for firefighting, water supply, and sewage disposal in data centres.
Cooling
Improving efficiency and optimising PUE
Cooling systems are among the largest energy consumers in data centres. With our high-efficiency pumps, intelligent pressurisation, expertise in degassing, and side-stream filtration, we ensure stable and resource-saving operation.
- High energy savings thanks to speed-controlled high-efficiency pumps and optimal system coordination.
- Optimisation of PUE and WUE, regardless of the technology used – whether liquid, hybrid, or air cooling.
- Integration of innovative concepts such as heat recovery to make use of waste heat efficiently.
Firefighting
Safety for people and infrastructure
Wilo provides reliable pump systems for modular firefighting solutions that guarantee maximum safety, even under demanding conditions.
- Highest availability thanks to redundancy and rapid diagnostics.
- Configurable and ideal for growing data centre environments.
- Compliance with all relevant standards and regulations.
Water distribution and pressure boosting
Reliable and convenient
Whether for sanitary facilities, kitchens, or other areas, our systems ensure sufficient water pressure and flow at all times. Clean water is the foundation for health, comfort, and smooth operation throughout the data centre.
- Efficient pressure-boosting systems made with durable materials for resource-saving operation.
- Solutions for rainwater utilisation and future-oriented water management.
Wastewater collection and transport
Resource conservation and compliance
We offer systems for safe and efficient wastewater management in data centres. Proper disposal is essential not only for minimising environmental impact but also for meeting legal requirements.
- Reliable transport and safe hygiene in sewage disposal.
- Fulfilment of regulatory requirements and protection of the ecosystem.
- Tailored solutions that combine operational reliability with sustainability.
Customised service solutions for data centres
Our dedicated service team for data centres develops tailored services with a forward-thinking approach, keeping your systems in constant focus. With local presence and global expertise, we offer fast on-site support – ensuring maximum operational reliability, top energy efficiency, and reliable availability. With regional supply chains, we are flexible and ready to help whenever you need us.
Aftermarket care and service
Data centres rely on mission-critical rotating equipment and it’s vital these key components are maintained to prevent downtime and ensure reliable operation. That’s where our 24 hour / 365 days a year data centre support services come in.
Wilo-Energy Audit
Our energy audits are aligned to the ‘2025 Best Practice Guidelines for the EU Code of Conduct on Data Centre Energy Efficiency’ and focus on life cycle assessment, energy management, asset management and sustainable energy usage
Proven in leading data centres. Future-proof solutions.
Our solutions are already in use in renowned data centres across the industry. Discover selected references and find out how, together with our partners, we are making data centres fit for the future.
Iron Mountain Data Centre
Optimisation of energy efficiency
At the Iron Mountain data centre in Haarlem, Wilo is setting new standards for energy efficiency and operational reliability, using high-efficiency Wilo-Stratos GIGA B pumps and comprehensive services.
Google Data Centre
Efficient cooling in the Google data centre
The Google data centre in Hamina, Finland, relies on energy-efficient Wilo pumps to provide reliable and environmentally friendly cooling for its server systems.
SenseTime Data Centre
Data centre for artificial intelligence
At the SenseTime AI Data Centre (AIDC), one of the largest AI data centres in Asia, highly efficient Wilo pump systems ensure reliable cooling and water supply.
Shaping the infrastructure for a digital, AI-driven future
Most people never see a data centre. Yet without them, there would be no streaming, no digital healthcare, and no online learning. To ensure these essential services run seamlessly, data centres always need high-quality water and stable cooling systems to prevent overheating.
Wilo ensures data centres operate efficiently, conserve resources, and make smart use of waste heat – for example, supplying district heating. This creates the foundation for what noticeably improves our everyday lives: intelligent mobility, smart cities, secure communication, and innovations that save energy and water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about data centre solutions
How does Wilo improve the energy efficiency of data centres?
By using high-efficiency pumps and speed-controlled systems, energy consumption in cooling and supply systems is significantly reduced. Intelligent pressurisation, degassing, dirt removal, and side-stream filtration further contribute to optimising system performance. Our solutions optimise cooling and water systems, improving PUE. At the same time, smart water usage concepts and closed circuits help optimise WUE values.
How does Wilo support decision-making?
We offer customised simulations, cost-effectiveness analyses, and training to identify the best solution. As part of a Wilo-Energy Audit, current energy consumption can be analysed in detail and specific savings potential revealed. This gives decision-makers a solid foundation for planning investments and implementing the right solution for their data centre.
Can existing infrastructure be easily upgraded?
How does Wilo support maintenance and lifecycle management?
What specific savings are possible with Wilo?
How does Wilo contribute to operational reliability?
What role does sustainability play in data centre solutions?
Our technologies improve efficiency figures and make an active contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions. We help you achieve your ESG and climate targets. Wilo combines technological excellence with responsibility, as demonstrated by multiple awards and certifications in environmental and energy efficiency. Find out more in our sustainability report.
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Ready to unlock the full potential of your data centre? Contact our experts to find the best solution for your requirements.
Contact our expertsStrongly connected for the future of AI and data centres
Wilo actively participates in leading networks and associations to help shape the digital transformation. This gives our customers direct access to the latest developments and innovations, while also benefiting from our close collaboration with experts from industry, science, and politics.
