In its first year of operations, a 1 GW fossil-fueled
data centre could emit from 2.7 to 5.7 Mt CO₂e
Illustrative emissions of a theoretical 1GW data centre in the UK under different power providers and load factors. The low load factor scenario assumes 45%, while the high load factor scenario assumes 95%.
Note: Renewables PPA assumed to guarantee a maximum carbon intensity of 50g per kWh.
| Power scenario | Low load factor scenario | High load factor scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Grid renewable PPA | 0.3 | 0.5 |
| Average grid intensity | 0.7 | 1.1 |
| CCGT | 2.7 | 3.8 |
| Reciprocating engine | 3.3 | 5.7 |