Challenges Towards Green Data Centers in Indonesia
In Podcast Nusantara Episode 1A, Bapak Dondy stated that the transition to green energy in Indonesia is quite difficult. Although alternatives like gas are available, this source is not sustainable, so it still relies on electricity. Additionally, while Indonesia has geothermal resources, their location far from major cities presents challenges in terms of connectivity.
Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE)
Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) is an important metric in the data center industry that measures energy efficiency. PUE 1.0, which indicates perfect efficiency, is often considered an almost impossible goal to achieve, especially in tropical countries like Indonesia. In colder climates, such as in four-season regions, achieving a lower PUE is easier because of reduced cooling needs.
Implications of PUE and Its Challenges in Indonesia
Achieving PUE 1.0 in the data center industry is considered a utopia. Technically, it might be achievable, but practically, especially in tropical regions, it is a difficult dream to realize. Data centers in cooler climates can more easily achieve lower PUE because they minimize cooling usage.
Challenges in Implementing Green Data Centers in Indonesia
- Climate and Environment
Indonesia’s tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures increases dependence on intensive cooling systems, making it difficult to achieve a lower PUE.
- Energy Sources
The main energy sources in Indonesia still rely on fossil fuels. Efforts to integrate renewable energy, such as solar panels, are hindered by inadequate infrastructure and regulations. For example, excess energy from solar panels should be fed back into the grid rather than stored in batteries for later use.
- Technology and Regulations
Implementing green technology requires support from both technology and regulations. Often, regulations cannot keep up with the rapid advancements in technology. For instance, current regulations do not allow surplus energy from solar panels to be stored, even though doing so could save energy.
INITIATIVES THAT HAVE BEEN TAKEN
Despite facing many challenges, efforts are being made to make Indonesian data centers greener, such as:
- Development of Standards and White Papers
Organizations like IDPRO are developing white papers and standards for green data centers. These documents aim to provide guidelines and best practices to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency in data centers.
- Technology Upgrades
Data centers in Indonesia are gradually implementing more energy-efficient technologies, such as the latest cooling systems and low-power consumption servers. However, this transition is slow due to high costs and long investment cycles related to data center infrastructure.
Conclusion
Achieving PUE 1.0 in Indonesia’s data center industry is a major challenge, but not impossible. With collaboration between the government, industry, and relevant organizations, as well as technological and regulatory improvements, Indonesia’s data center industry can move toward better energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint.
For a complete discussion, tune in to Podcast Nusantara Episode 1A
