EU sustainability label for data centres.
Understand the metrics. Prepare for the future
The European rating scheme makes data centre energy and water efficiency comparable. High Knowledge helps operators prepare reliable measurement data, identify improvements and integrate their preparations into a broader sustainability strategy.
The new EU label: two efficiency classes, a transparent overview.
On 21 September 2026, the European Commission published Delegated Regulation C(2026) 3472 final. It provides separate A–G classes for energy efficiency based on PUE and water efficiency based on WUE. The electronic label also shows energy sources, grid flexibility and readiness to supply waste heat.
Legal status: 25 September 2026. The delegated act is under scrutiny by the European Parliament and Council. Commission publication and entry into force are separate steps. The text provides for entry into force on the twentieth day after publication in the EU Official Journal.
Which data centres are covered?
The rating scheme builds on European reporting requirements for data centres with installed IT power demand of at least 500 kW. The new act provides for voluntary participation by smaller data centres.
Data centres not yet in operation may also participate voluntarily under the proposed procedure. Their information is based on documented design values, and the label identifies this status.
When will the first labels be issued?
Under the published act, the first electronic labels are due by 15 August 2027 , with annual renewal thereafter. They are based on information and indicators reported to the European data centre database.
The European database generates the label automatically. Operators must be able to make it available electronically on request; a link to the freely accessible database is sufficient.
Reliable data starts with the measurement concept.
An efficiency class is only as meaningful as its underlying data. We review system boundaries, measurement points, reporting periods and responsibilities with you. Energy used for IT, cooling and power infrastructure needs traceable allocation; water consumption and energy sources require consistent evidence.
The annexes change the WUE definition to freshwater input, add information on waste heat readiness and energy sources, and remove the previous data traffic indicators. Existing reporting processes therefore need a technical review.
EU label: regulatory comparability.
The EU label classifies selected operational indicators. PUE and WUE each receive their own class, supplemented by additional information. Automatic generation is not a comprehensive certification audit of the entire data centre.
A good PUE alone does not assess security, availability or a site's overall sustainability. Climate, utilisation and the relationship between energy and water use also matter when interpreting the results.
SDC: assess sustainability against 301 criteria.
Our proprietary Sustainable Data Center (SDC) certification system uses 301 criteria , covering a substantially broader assessment scope than the EU label's indicator presentation. It provides a distinct framework for structured, documented sustainability assessment.
The two instruments serve different purposes and can complement each other. An EU label does not replace SDC certification. Conversely, SDC does not replace statutory reporting or the label generated by the European database.
From baseline review to an evidence-based improvement plan.
We tailor the scope to your site and the maturity of its data collection:
- Scoping: clarify applicability, the operator's role and existing reporting processes.
- Data review: assess measurement concepts, system boundaries, completeness and plausibility.
- Technical analysis: consider power, cooling, water use and waste heat potential together.
- Implementation plan: prioritise measures by impact, effort and operational disruption.
- Sustainability assessment: where appropriate, combine preparation with the SDC process and its 301 criteria.
High Knowledge supports technical preparation. The official EU label is generated exclusively through the European database procedure.
Sources and context
This overview is based on Regulation C(2026) 3472 final and its annexes of 21 September 2026 and the European Parliament scrutiny procedure. Implementation must follow the final legal position and the requirements of the competent reporting bodies.
Frequently asked questions about the EU data centre label
Is the EU label already in force?
As of 25 September 2026, the Commission has published the delegated act and scrutiny is ongoing. This page therefore distinguishes between the provisions envisaged and law already in force.
Does High Knowledge issue the EU label?
No. The electronic label is generated automatically by the European data centre database from reported data. We support technical preparation, data quality and improvement planning.
Why pursue SDC certification as well?
The EU label makes selected indicators comparable. SDC assesses sustainability through a distinct system of 301 criteria, providing a substantially broader assessment. The scope and evidence are defined within the SDC process.
Prepare for the EU label. Take sustainability further.
Would you like to review your data or combine efficiency improvements with SDC certification? Let us discuss your starting point and the next practical steps.