データセンターは、コンピューターを動かし、機器を冷却するために大量の電力を使います。

READING

Data centers use large amounts of electricity to operate computers and keep equipment cool. During this process, a significant amount of heat is produced and usually released into the surrounding environment. Recently, some companies and local governments have begun using this waste heat for other purposes. Pipes can carry the heat to nearby buildings or facilities, where it may be used for heating water or indoor spaces.

Supporters say this approach has several advantages. Heat that would normally be released into the surrounding environment can instead be sent to nearby buildings and used again. This means less additional energy is needed to produce heat for those buildings. There is another advantage. Reusing this heat can reduce the amount of fossil fuel used for heating. As a result, fewer greenhouse gases may be released, which can support efforts to reduce overall carbon emissions.

However, critics point out a limitation. Waste heat from data centers is often not very hot. Because of its relatively low temperature, it cannot be used efficiently for every purpose. Some buildings may need additional equipment to raise the temperature before the heat becomes useful. Therefore, the range of practical applications may remain limited.