Cloud computing and content delivery are foundational to modern economies, which has resulted in data centres emerging as the vital infrastructure powering the online world. Nowhere is this more critical than in sub-Saharan Africa, where connectivity hubs like those in South Africa serve as the heart of the region’s digital transformation.
Yet, amidst rising demand, South Africa’s approach to data centre growth tells a compelling story – one of sustainability, innovation, and a commitment to doing more with less.
Giant footprint with a light touch
Data centres and connectivity hubs in South Africa play a critical role in servicing sub-Saharan Africa’s content and cloud requirements.
Modern data centres are embracing energy-efficient systems that reduce power consumption significantly. Older data centres use significant energy on cooling and electrical systems, which means they’re not very energy efficient.
A recent report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that by 2030, electricity use per person from data centres in South Africa will be 15 times higher than in the rest of Africa.
While this ratio is directionally correct, it’s misleading as it doesn’t reflect South Africa’s role in servicing sub-Saharan Africa’s content and cloud requirements, not just local demand.
While South Africa is expected to reach 25 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per person from data centre use by 2030 – compared to just 2kWh across the rest of Africa – this remains modest next to countries like the US, where usage is projected to hit 1 200kWh per person.
To put this into perspective, China is forecast to consume 200kWh per person, Japan 270kWh, and Europe 165kWh.
Clearly, Africa is underrepresented in terms of digital infrastructure relative to its population. These numbers show that South African and African data centre electricity consumption lags significantly compared to more industrialised countries.
Renewable energy is a core strategy
Companies like Teraco, Africa’s largest data centre provider, are setting the benchmark in sustainable operations through energy-efficient systems, advanced cooling techniques, AI, and the adoption of renewable energy.
With a bold roadmap to achieve 100% renewable energy usage by 2035, Teraco is not just riding the wave of green tech – it’s building it.
In a world first for data centre operators, Teraco broke ground in 2024 on a 120MW utility-scale solar PV plant in South Africa’s Free State province. This facility, wholly owned by Teraco, will supply renewable power directly to its data centres via energy wheeling agreements, bypassing traditional fossil-fuel sources and forging a sustainable energy loop. The PV plant is set to go online in 2026.
But the commitment doesn’t stop there. Teraco has also signed a wind power purchase agreement with NOA, a South African-based integrated energy aggregator, further diversifying its renewable portfolio. These efforts form part of a broader R3.5 billion investment in renewable capacity, demonstrating that sustainability is more than a buzzword; it’s a core business strategy.
Efficiency by design
Energy efficiency isn’t just about the source. Rather, it’s about how power is used. Teraco’s data centres are engineered for performance and precision, with new facilities designed to deliver a blended Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.3 – an industry-leading metric that reflects minimal energy wastage.
This level of efficiency is achieved through:
- Closed-loop cooling systems that drastically reduce water use;
- Free cooling technologies that take advantage of ambient temperatures;
- Innovative airflow and thermal management systems; and
- Continuous commissioning for real-time optimisation.
As a result, Teraco boasts a Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) of only 0.10 L/kWh, well below the US average of 1.8 L/kWh. That’s less than half a cup of water used per kWh of IT energy – a critical achievement in a water-scarce country like South Africa.
Tracking impact, driving accountability
Teraco tracks and reports Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas emissions in line with the GHG Protocol and TCFD standards to ensure its sustainability commitments translate into real-world impact. This data-driven approach ensures transparency and helps identify new opportunities for emission reduction.
And it’s not just about energy. Teraco is also targeting zero waste to landfill by 2028, with recycling and sorting systems integrated into every site.
Looking ahead
As Teraco continues to expand its footprint, it continues to lead with a sustainability-first mindset. With ISO 50001-certified energy management systems and a dedicated team focused on energy efficiency, every new build reflects a forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility.
South Africa’s data centres are setting the benchmark for future designs. They prove it’s possible to build the backbone of Africa’s digital economy while honouring a deep commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and innovation.
As the continent’s demand for connectivity and content continues to grow, one thing is clear: the future of data is green – and it’s being powered from the heart of Africa.
