North America data centre operator Cologix powered 45% of its footprint of nearly 40 facilities in 2020 using renewable energy.

Of the company’s 228,853,955 kWh energy use, 102,230,444 kWh were originated from green sources based on last year’s total utility use, according to the provider’s first Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) report.

Cologix has also carried out environment capital expenditure (CAPEX) in the order of US$15 million since 2016 to improve energy usage and other wasteful resources within its facilities in order to cut carbon emissions. To date, the company has completed 51 energy efficiency projects which include high-efficiency systems, LED lighting and upgrading equipment across facilities.

The operator said it is currently evaluating its process for calculating total water withdrawn and consumed and that it anticipates disclosure on this point in its next ESG report. It stressed, however, that Cologix data centres do not currently operate in regions with High or Extremely High Baseline Water Stress.

Bill Fathers, chairman and CEO, said: “We recognise our business is inherently energy-intensive. We have strategically chosen to invest in markets where renewable energy options are readily available. How we consume energy is also of great importance to us. As we build larger facilities, energy efficiency is at the core of our basis of design.

“I believe we can be a part of the solution, working to achieve or exceed the goals set forth at COP 21 in Paris in 2015. Our industry is one filled with solutions, and we are committed to being as aggressive as possible in transitioning to more efficient, zero-carbon technologies.”

With over 300 employees in the US and Canada, Cologix operates today 39 data centres in North America across 11 markets, servicing over 1,600 customers.

As the company expands its footprint such as in Columbus, Ohio, where it is adding 40MW of hosting capacity, it said that it will actively choose market locations based on the availability of renewable energy and the local utility provider in that market.

“As Cologix grows and builds new, larger facilities to meet the needs of our customers, we are committed to utilising suppliers and contractors to build our data centres who understand our commitment to ESG,” said Jessica Bennett, general counsel.

She added: “Our design process for any new build considers low carbon options, prioritizes energy efficiency and ensures our suppliers align with these priorities.

“Formal supply chain optimization processes and a new supplier code of conduct are a part of our ESG roadmap for the coming years. Cologix looks forward to ensuring our procurement process and partnerships with suppliers advances our ESG goals.