European Commission proposes common EU rating scheme for data centres

The European Commission has proposed a common rating scheme for data centres to increase transparency on their energy and water use and support their sustainable integration into Europe's energy system. The scheme covers individual data centres with capacity above 500 kW and also their contribution to the grid, such as waste-heat reuse, added clean-energy generation capacity and flexibility. The Commission also launched a call for evidence and public consultation on minimum performance standards for data centres, closing on 14 December 2026. The Delegated Regulation now faces a two-month scrutiny period by the European Parliament and Council, with first sustainability labels expected in 202…