Data Center Infrastructure Efficiency (DCiE)

What is DCiE?

Data Center Infrastructure Efficiency (DCiE) is a metric that measures the energy efficiency of a data center by looking at the ratio of the IT equipment's power to the total facility power. In simpler terms, it tells you how much of the total energy used by a data center is actually used for computing versus how much is used for other things like cooling and lighting. It is the inverse of Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).

How is DCiE calculated?

The formula for calculating data center infrastructure efficiency is

DCiE = (Total IT Equipment Power / Total Facility Power) x 100

The result is expressed as a percentage. For example, if the total power consumed by a data center is 50,000 kWh and the IT equipment uses 40,000 kWh, the DCiE is 80%.

This is the inverse of PUE, so a higher number for DCiE is ideal, while a lower number for PUE is preferred. The more energy a data center uses for computing tasks versus powering everything else in it, the more efficient it is.

Strategies for improving DCiE

Many data centers use DCiE (alongside related metrics) for sustainability reporting to track and communicate their environmental performance. Here are some steps to take to improve a data center's efficiency and its carbon footprint:

• Upgrading HVAC systems, including implementing better airflow management and AI controls, can reduce total facility power usage. 

• Optimize cooling strategies by using liquid cooling. 

• Employ energy-efficient servers and storage devices.

• Explore renewable and green energy sources.

Resources for Data Center Infrastructure Efficiency

• Data Centers

• Trane Feature: Pioneers of Data Center Cooling Sustainability

• Case study: Sustainable Data Center Solutions for Cape Augusta Digital Properties

• Case study: Cyxtera Data Center: Energy-Efficient Cooling and Cost Savings

• Case study: ARRIS Group, Inc.

Improving DCiE requires a holistic approach that considers IT equipment, power infrastructure, airflow management, and HVAC systems. At Trane, we are industry leaders in decarbonization and energy efficiency, and we create and implement a plan to help you increase your DCiE. Contact one of our local experts today.