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AI is reshaping the conversation around data centers, putting the need for responsible, sustainable growth front and center. In this recent episode of the Data Center Frontiers podcast, CMO and ESG Strategy Officer Page Haun shares why and how Cologix partners with developers, utility providers and local communities to ensure economic and environmental responsibility remains a top priority.
Haun emphasizes that concerns about AI’s energy impact are valid, but the industry must do a better job communicating the essential role data centers play in the digital economy — from healthcare and education to cloud and AI innovation. The conversation also explores sustainable design and engineering strategies for high-density AI environments.
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Sustainable Data Centers in the Age of AI
FAQs on Data Center Sustainability
What is Cologix doing to improve data center sustainability?
Cologix is taking a multifaceted approach to sustainability that spans design, operations, energy sourcing and reporting. The company recently achieved LEED Gold certification for its Montreal MTL8 data center, reflecting reduced energy consumption, lower water use, minimized waste and responsible materials management. These standards are now informing future builds and Cologix’s overall design strategy.
Operationally, Cologix prioritizes energy and water efficiency. In 2024, the company reported a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.486 — outperforming the global industry average — and a Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) of 0.203, significantly below the industry average of 1.8, largely due to its use of closed-loop cooling systems.
What does strong community partnership look like for data centers?
According to Cologix, strong community partnership is built on long-term engagement, communication and collaboration. Each community has unique environmental priorities and economic expectations, and they must act as responsible local citizens.
Cologix participates in town meetings, engages local officials and builds relationships with municipal leadership in all communities with a Cologix facility. Beyond environmental considerations, Cologix also supports local initiatives such as STEM education, internships, recycling programs, clothing and food drives and disaster relief efforts. The company emphasizes aligning sustainability commitments with local economic and environmental priorities.
How are data centers addressing grid constraints?
Data centers are increasingly partnering with utilities to proactively manage grid capacity and long-term infrastructure planning. Rather than acting solely as energy consumers, operators are now deeply involved in load forecasting, transmission planning and energy market coordination.
Cologix points to its partnership with AEP Ohio as an example of innovation in response to AI-driven demand. To bridge the gap between immediate data center power needs and multi-year transmission upgrades, Cologix and AEP Ohio agreed to install on-site fuel cell systems at a future Columbus facility. Cologix will fund the project through a long-term contract, ensuring costs are not passed on to other utility customers. This collaborative model enables responsible scaling while grid infrastructure catches up.
What role do renewable energy sources play in Cologix data centers?
Renewable and carbon-free energy are central to Cologix’s siting strategy and sustainability goals. In 2024, Cologix reported that 65% of its overall energy consumption came from carbon-free sources, even as its footprint grew by 40%.
In Canada, site selection is strongly influenced by access to hydropower and natural cooling advantages. In Montreal, Cologix data centers are powered by approximately 99% renewable energy from Hydro-Québec. In Toronto, facilities leverage deep lake water cooling, and Canada’s cooler climate supports overall energy efficiency.
Cologix views renewable energy planning as a non-negotiable principle for new developments, ensuring sustainability extends beyond facility design to the energy sources that power operations.
How do fuel cells support data center sustainability and grid reliability?
Fuel cells provide a lower-emission, highly efficient on-site power solution that can help data centers begin operations more quickly while utilities complete longer-term grid upgrades. Fuel cell systems support sustainability by reducing emissions compared to some traditional power sources and enhance grid reliability by easing strain during infrastructure buildouts.
