Rising energy consumption, rapid growth in the artificial intelligence sector, and limited availability of grid connection capacity mean that data centers in Poland are facing one of the greatest challenges in their history. As a result, energy optimization is no longer just a component of an ESG strategy—it has become a key performance indicator (KPI) and a decisive factor in the ability to expand further.

Analyses by PMR Market Experts indicate that data center operators are increasingly treating energy consumption as a strategic factor, and modernization projects in the areas of cooling, power management, and energy monitoring are becoming standard in investment planning.

Why has energy become the main risk factor in the DC sector?

In recent years, the demand for computing power has grown exponentially, particularly due to AI, HPC (High-Performance Computing), and the expansion of cloud services. Meanwhile, energy availability and the pace at which new facilities are coming online are not keeping up with demand.

Cost pressures and rising energy prices

Energy costs remain one of the largest components of a data center’s operating budget. With fluctuating wholesale prices and rising distribution rates, operators are forced to invest in technologies that reduce energy consumption—both in IT infrastructure and cooling systems.

Operators are increasingly analyzing energy costs from a long-term perspective, viewing them as a key factor affecting the profitability of colocation and cloud services.

Limited availability of connection capacity

In many regions—especially in the Warsaw area—operators face barriers related to connection capacity. In practice, this means they must design more energy-efficient facilities or relocate their projects to new sites. The growing importance of optimization therefore stems not only from cost pressures but also from the physical limitations of the power infrastructure.

Energy Optimization as a New KPI

Energy efficiency metrics are increasingly at the heart of data center operators’ strategies—not only the traditional PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness), but also metrics related to resource utilization, cooling efficiency, and energy productivity.

PUE—a standard that continues to evolve

Although PUE remains one of the most commonly used metrics, its interpretation is evolving as AI requirements increase. Average server loads are rising, and energy models require the prediction of power peaks and the simulation of dynamic loads.

Optimizing PUE is no longer just about upgrading technical infrastructure components—it requires an analysis of the entire lifecycle, real-time monitoring, and automation of energy management.

Cooling efficiency—the main focus of the modernization

As power density in server racks increases, traditional air-cooling systems are becoming insufficient. Liquid cooling technologies are becoming increasingly important, both at the component level and for entire IT racks. Modernizing cooling systems allows operators to reduce energy consumption even under the high loads generated by AI and HPC infrastructure.

Monitoring and Automation

A key element of the transformation is the development of energy monitoring systems that enable real-time consumption tracking and dynamic load management. These systems make it possible to identify inefficiencies, analyze trends, and make optimization decisions.

Many facilities are also implementing data-driven predictive tools to support the management of air conditioning, power distribution, and energy demand forecasting.

New Technologies That Promote Energy Efficiency

Data center operators in Poland are increasingly adopting solutions that, just a few years ago, were used primarily by global hyperscale service providers.

Liquid Cooling and Hybrid Cooling Systems

Liquid cooling—both direct-to-chip and immersion cooling—significantly reduces energy consumption for cooling while preparing data centers to support infrastructure with very high computing power. Within a few years, these technologies may become dominant in facilities designed for AI and HPC.

Airflow Optimization

In data centers that use air cooling, advanced optimization methods—such as intelligent ventilation control, the separation of hot and cold zones, and predictive HVAC control systems—are becoming increasingly important.

Renewable Energy Use and PPAs

The growing interest in renewable energy sources stems from both climate goals and the need to stabilize costs. Data center operators are increasingly turning to PPAs that allow them to purchase energy directly from renewable sources, which reduces their exposure to price fluctuations.

How does energy optimization affect investment decisions?

Analyses by PMR Market Experts indicate that the energy efficiency of facilities is becoming a key criterion for evaluating investments—for both operators and institutional investors.

A New Standard in Design

New facilities are designed using the “energy by design” model—with a focus on maximum energy efficiency right from the conceptual stage. This applies to cooling, power distribution, and the ability to integrate with renewable energy sources.

Modernization of Existing Facilities

Data centers built 5–10 years ago are increasingly undergoing upgrades, including the replacement of cooling systems, updates to IT infrastructure, and the implementation of energy monitoring systems. For many operators, this is the only way to increase capacity when they are unable to secure an additional power connection.

The Importance of Energy Data and Simulations

Energy optimization requires advanced analytics based on data—both historical and predictive. Companies use trend analysis, scenario simulations, and load models to accurately assess profitability and plan investments.

Energy Optimization as the Foundation for Further Expansion

As the Polish data center market grows, so does the pressure to use energy efficiently. Energy optimization is becoming essential for scaling services and building operators’ competitiveness.

Analyses by PMR Market Experts emphasize that the development of AI, increased infrastructure loads, and energy constraints will require investments in cooling, monitoring, and energy management in the coming years. Efficiency-improvement projects will become one of the main areas of spending in the data center sector.

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Hume’s Institute stands for knowledge. PMR Market Experts stands for experience. When we join forces, you gain a competitive edge. See how we can support your business.

Dariusz Śmiejkowski

Chief Executive Officer