Log in or register
Share on LinkedInShare on LinkedIn

ARTICLE · 13 NOVEMBER 2026

Data Centre Energy Efficiency: The EU's Digital Energy Roadmap

Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland
Contributor
Eversheds Sutherland

Eversheds Sutherland

Eversheds Sutherland in Italy was founded more than 40 years ago and now has more than 80 lawyers...

View firm profile
Explore more from Eversheds Sutherland

The European Commission's Strategic Roadmap for Digitalisation and AI in the Energy Sector introduces a comprehensive framework for integrating data centres sustainably into the EU energy system through 2030. Will the proposed rating scheme, model tripartite agreements, and potential minimum performance standards reshape how data centre operators approach energy efficiency, clean power procurement, and grid integration? The Roadmap signals a shift toward treating digital infrastructure as an active particip

European UnionEnergy and Natural Resources
Seán Scally
Seán Scally
Ben Brown
Ben Brown
Cal Lynn
Cal Lynn

Key Takeaways

What the Roadmap is The Roadmap is a non-binding Commission communication. It sets out measures to 2030 under three pillars, a cross-cutting section and seven flagship actions. 
Pillar I – Energy for AI Focuses on integrating data centres sustainably into the energy system through a model tripartite agreement, an EU rating scheme for data centres and possible minimum performance standards.
Pillar II – Digitalisation and AI for the energy system Focuses on smarter grids, faster smart-meter rollout and European AI models for grid management, supported by approximately €75 million for AI in energy and a further €190 million for wider digital solutions under Horizon Europe in 2026–2027.

We operate a free-to-view policy, asking only that you register in order to read all of our content. Please login or register to view the rest of this article.

Register for freeORLog in

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

View source

Related Articles

Legal Intelligence Newsletters: sign up for the latest legal and regulatory news on your chosen topics

Read more about

Related Comparative Guides

See more popular content from

Article

Gate 2 Connection Offer Deadlines Updated: What Ofgem’s Decision Means For Energy Projects

Ofgem has approved a revised timetable for Gate 2 connection offers under the Gate 2 to Whole Queue process, extending key deadlines that may affect project financing, programme risk and contractual alignment. The decision provides clarity on the National Energy System Operator's licence obligations and introduces phased delivery milestones for energy projects progressing through the connections queue.
United KingdomEnergy and Natural Resources
Shakespeare Martineau LLP
Shakespeare Martineau LLP
Article

Futureproofing Data Centres: How To Navigate Grid Constraints And Alternative Power Strategies

The UK's rapid expansion of data centres to support its AI ambitions is creating an unprecedented energy challenge, with over 125 gigawatts of projects waiting for National Grid access while demand is expected to increase six-fold by 2035. As grid connection delays threaten to constrain development, operators are increasingly turning to alternative 'behind-the-meter' energy solutions that bypass traditional infrastructure bottlenecks.
United KingdomEnergy and Natural Resources
Shakespeare Martineau LLP
Shakespeare Martineau LLP
Article

EU Nuclear: A €241 Billion Investment Cycle Takes Shape

10 March 2026 was a defining day for EU energy policy. The European Commission published its new strategy for nuclear, offering it a central place in the EU’s energy vision. Two key documents set out its approach: the Strategy for the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors in Europe (the EU SMR Strategy) and the final 8th Nuclear Illustrative Programme under Article 40 Euratom (the 8th PINC).
European UnionEnergy and Natural Resources
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP
Article

“Pay To Stay”: Ofgem’s Plan To Cull The Data Centre Connection Queue

Ofgem's proposed data centre connection reforms introduce substantial upfront commitment fees ranging from £237,500 to £712,500 per MW and stringent queue management milestones for projects seeking grid connections. Will these measures successfully eliminate speculative projects while preserving viable data centre developments, or will they drive investment away from the UK entirely?
United KingdomEnergy and Natural Resources
Slaughter and May
Slaughter and May
Article

Earned Settlement: What The New Rules Mean For Employers

The UK government has confirmed a major overhaul of its indefinite leave to remain system, introducing "earned settlement" pathways that will extend the default waiting period from five to ten years. With earnings thresholds determining faster or slower routes to permanent residence, and stricter character requirements affecting eligibility, employers face significant implications for workforce planning, retention strategies, and sponsorship costs as these changes roll out through 2027.
United KingdomImmigration
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland
Article

EU Sustainability Omnibus Package: Key Changes And Implications For Businesses

The European Union has introduced a comprehensive Sustainability Omnibus Package that will significantly impact how businesses across member states approach environmental, social, and governance reporting. Understanding these regulatory changes is crucial for companies operating in or with the EU to ensure compliance and adapt their sustainability strategies accordingly.
European UnionEnvironment
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland
Article

Modernising Corporate Reporting: Key Proposals And Next Steps

Eversheds Sutherland provides comprehensive legal services through a global network of separate and distinct legal entities. The firm's website offers access to legal professionals, insights on international arbitration, workplace technology deployment, and sovereign immunity cases, while maintaining clear disclaimers about the general information nature of its materials.
United KingdomLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland
Article

UK Quarterly Employment Update - Autumn 2026

Eversheds Sutherland provides essential legal information and disclaimers regarding the use of their website materials, clarifying the scope and limitations of the content provided. The firm outlines important considerations for users accessing their legal resources and general information, emphasizing the need for professional consultation on specific matters. Contact information for legal professionals Diane Gilhooley and Paul Fontes is made available for further assistance.
United KingdomCorporate/Commercial Law
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland