ASHRAE releases guidance for AI data centres

The guidance focuses on thermal management as a fundamental aspect of the energy demand equation for the facilities. It incorporates practice, technical strategies for the full lifecycle of both new and existing AI Data Centres, including planning and design, commissioning, retrofit and ongoing operation.

The goal is to help owners, operators and engineers make decisions that optimise performance, control operating costs and support resilient operations. The framework addresses performance factors including energy and water use and facility reliability, with recommendations suitable for a range of climate zones and operating conditions.

At the crux of the guidance is recognition that cooling is an inseparable part of data centre function, and a major determinant of both reliability and energy use.

ASHRAE led the development of guidance related to HVAC systems, thermal management and overall facility performance, building on its established body of work, including resources developed through Technical Committee 9.9 (Mission Critical Facilities, Data Centers, Technology Spaces & Electronic Equipment) and Project Committees overseeing Standard 90.4, Energy Standard for Data Centers and Standard 127, Method of Testing for Rating Air-Conditioning Units Serving Data Center (DC) and Other Information Technology Equipment.

“ASHRAE’s technical leadership in building systems and data center guidance is central to this effort at a pivotal moment for our industry,” says ASHRAE President Bill McQuade.

“As AI continues to drive rapid changes in load density, system design and operational expectations, this Framework brings together the collective expertise of ASHRAE, PNNL and NEMA to deliver practical, integrated solutions. It translates complex technical challenges into clear, actionable strategies that help operators enhance performance, control costs and make more effective use of energy, while strengthening reliability at both the facility and grid level.”

The Framework is freely available at the ASHRAE website here.

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