OVHcloud: Green Data Center Review
OVHcloud is a European leader in sustainable cloud and data center operations, with a long-standing commitment to minimizing environmental impact through innovative design, aggressive carbon reduction targets, and circular economy principles. The company’s sustainability strategy is recognized by multiple independent organizations and aligns with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C trajectory.
OVHcloud has set ambitious, science-based decarbonization goals approved by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company aims to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 73.4% by 2030 (compared to 2022), and Scope 3 emissions by 52% per unit of value added in the same period. These targets are among the most ambitious in the cloud sector.
Low-Carbon and Renewable Energy
By 2025, OVHcloud is committed to using 100% low-carbon energy-including renewables, nuclear, and hydroelectricity-across its operations. This transition is central to its emissions reduction strategy.
Zero Waste to Landfill
The company has pledged to achieve zero waste to landfill from its own processes by 2025, at a constant geographic scope. This is complemented by extensive recycling and reuse initiatives, including reusing 36% of server components in 2023.
Circular Economy and Recyled Data Centers
OVHcloud is a pioneer in repurposing existing buildings for data center use, reducing the carbon footprint associated with new construction. As of 2024, 28 of its data centers are recycled sites, including former factories, industrial plants, and even a historic NSA base. This approach not only conserves resources but also preserves the unique histories of these sites.
Energy and Water Efficiency
OVHcloud outperforms industry standards in Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE), and Carbon Usage Effectiveness (CUE). The company’s proprietary water-cooling technology, developed in 2003, allows its server rooms to operate without traditional air conditioning, further reducing energy consumption and water use.
Green Building and Operations
OVHcloud’s vertically integrated model enables control over the entire lifecycle of its infrastructure, from server manufacturing to end-of-life recycling. The company also adopts the European Code of Conduct for datacentre energy efficiency and is a founding member of the Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact.
Responsible AI and Innovation
OVHcloud is a founding member of the Coalition for Sustainable AI, promoting responsible and climate-conscious AI development and infrastructure. The company continues to invest in R&D for more efficient cooling, hardware longevity, and sustainable operations.
Summary Table: OVHcloud’s Green Credentials
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Carbon Reduction Targets | -73.4% Scope 1 & 2 by 2030; -52% Scope 3 per value added by 2030 (vs. 2022) |
| Energy Source | 100% low-carbon (renewable, nuclear, hydro) by 2025 |
| Zero Waste | Zero waste to landfill by 2025 |
| Circular Economy | 28 recycled data centers; 36% server component reuse in 2023 |
| Efficiency | Outperforms industry in PUE, WUE, CUE; proprietary water-cooling |
| Green Standards | Code of Conduct for energy efficiency; Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact member |
| Responsible AI | Founding member, Coalition for Sustainable AI |
OVHcloud is a sustainability frontrunner in the cloud and data center industry, combining ambitious science-based climate targets, innovative energy and water efficiency, and a circular approach to infrastructure. Its commitment to recycled data centers, zero waste, and responsible AI positions OVHcloud as a top choice for organizations seeking environmentally responsible digital infrastructure.