Intelligent Data Centres Issue 68 | Page 28

D A T A C E N T R E P R E D I C T I O N S
global solutions to climate change and helping create cities of the future ,” says its literature .
Moreover , Masdar City ’ s technological innovations include development clusters for smart mobility , life sciences , energy , agri-tech , AI and space technology . These cumulative efforts are certainly yielding tangible results – the UAE ’ s real GDP growth is predicted to be 3.5 % this year , surpassing the global average of 3.2 % and outpacing all G7 nations .
According to the planners , sustainable design at Masdar City has been implemented into every aspect of its master plan , integrating gathering spaces , parks , landscaping , transportation and more into its urban framework .
Each building , street , and public space is thoughtfully designed and oriented to optimise thermal comfort , maximise energy and water efficiency , minimise waste and reduce carbon emissions . With over 11MW of solar PV panels installed throughout the city , renewable energy is a cornerstone of its development .
This focus on renewable energy is mirrored in the UAE ’ s broader goals . The country already boasts three of the world ’ s largest solar plants , with the Noor Abu Dhabi solar park alone reducing the UAE ’ s carbon footprint by 1 million metric tons annually – equivalent to removing 200,000 cars off the road . The energy plan is to triple renewable energy source ( RES ) capacity to 14GW by 2030 , striving for carbon neutrality in energy by 2025 .
Sustainability principle
Sustainability is a central principle of the UAE ’ s Green Agenda 2030 , a comprehensive plan to cultivate sustainable development and create a more eco-friendly economy . The agenda includes strategic objectives and various initiatives in areas such as competitive knowledge economy ; social development and quality of life ; sustainable environment and valued natural resources ; clean energy and climate action ; and green life and sustainable use of resources .
Data infrastructure is a key element of this transformation , with digital technologies expected to underpin nearly every aspect of the initiative .
Additionally , significant investments are being made in greener , more sustainable data centres across the MENA region , particularly in the UAE .
Research indicates that investments in green data centres in MENA are expected
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