In a bold move toward greener technology, EcoDataCenter has unveiled its second facility, EcoDataCenter 2, in Borlänge, Sweden. The new data centre is a striking example of sustainable construction, built primarily from cross‑laminated timber and powered entirely by renewable energy.
Unlike the typical steel‑and‑concrete complexes that dominate the industry, EcoDataCenter 2’s wooden structure reduces embodied carbon by a factor of three. The timber panels were pre‑cut and assembled on site by crane, creating a cavernous, echo‑free space that resembles a large IKEA showroom before the final fit‑out. According to Chief External Relations and Sustainability Officer John Wernvik, the amount of timber used would take Swedish forests only 10 to 15 minutes to regrow.
Beyond its low‑carbon construction, the facility’s power supply is 100% renewable, drawing 75% from hydroelectric sources and 25% from wind farms. This clean energy mix ensures that the data centre’s operations have a minimal environmental footprint, a stark contrast to many U.S. counterparts that rely on fossil fuels and temporary generators.
EcoDataCenter 2 also prioritizes community engagement. The project was built with local input and transparency, addressing common concerns about data centres such as land use, water consumption, and job creation. In the former copper‑mining town of Falun, the facility has become a source of local pride, demonstrating that large‑scale technology infrastructure can coexist with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
While data centres often face criticism for their perceived environmental impact and lack of local benefit, EcoDataCenter 2 shows that sustainable design and renewable energy can transform the narrative. The Swedish model offers a compelling blueprint for other nations seeking to balance technological advancement with ecological and community well‑being.
Source: The Guardian World
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