The increase in worldwide digital activity has positioned data centers in the center of the digital economy. However, since these capital-intensive infrastructures come to consume significant amounts of energy, there are implications for their nuances in contribution to overall sustainability and environmental impact. Existing literature on Sustainability Transitions Theory (STT) has focused on established systems in the transportation and energy production sectors. Here, we introduce a conceptual framework that explores data centers as a niche type of actor to advance renewable energy transitions. Contributing to theory on STT and the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), we credibly position digital infrastructure in sustainability discussions. We advance the conversation on public and private partnerships, policy incentives, technological innovations, and financial mechanisms in support of digital economic and renewable energy growth. This conceptual expansion not only invites theorization around sustainability transitions but also compels broader applicability for governments, industry, and advocates of sustainability.

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A Conceptual Framework for Understanding the Role of Data Centers in Accelerating Global Renewable Energy Capacity

  • Muskan Khan,
  • Srinivasa Krishna Prasad Buravelli,
  • Sarika N. Pappala,
  • Deepika Chaudhary

摘要

The increase in worldwide digital activity has positioned data centers in the center of the digital economy. However, since these capital-intensive infrastructures come to consume significant amounts of energy, there are implications for their nuances in contribution to overall sustainability and environmental impact. Existing literature on Sustainability Transitions Theory (STT) has focused on established systems in the transportation and energy production sectors. Here, we introduce a conceptual framework that explores data centers as a niche type of actor to advance renewable energy transitions. Contributing to theory on STT and the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), we credibly position digital infrastructure in sustainability discussions. We advance the conversation on public and private partnerships, policy incentives, technological innovations, and financial mechanisms in support of digital economic and renewable energy growth. This conceptual expansion not only invites theorization around sustainability transitions but also compels broader applicability for governments, industry, and advocates of sustainability.