ZERO warned that data centers can contribute to the green transition but risk "being resource predators". The environmental organization recognizes the positive potential of these infrastructures for decarbonization but expresses concerns about their impact on energy resources.
According to ZERO, connection requests to the electricity grid associated with data centers already represent more than 70% of the power requested from REN, the National Electrical Grid. This data reveals unprecedented pressure on the Portuguese energy system.
REN now faces the challenge of managing massive energy demand from these data centers, which compete with other sectors for access to the electrical grid. The situation calls into question the national energy system's response capacity.
ZERO calls for balanced resource management, warning that although data centers can play a role in the green transition, their uncontrolled growth can turn these infrastructures into excessive consumers of energy and resources.
