ATLANTA (10 June 2026) – ASHRAE, in collaboration with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), has announced the release of a comprehensive framework for assessing the energy efficiency of AI data centres.
The framework is available on the ASHRAE website, giving the entire industry access to practical, expert-led guidance on next-generation data centre design and operation.
As demand for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing continues to grow, data centres are placing increasing demands on both facility systems and energy infrastructure. According to Pew Research Center, more than 3000 data centres are currently operating in the United States, with significant growth expected in the coming years.
A further 1500 data centres are already at various stages of development. The new framework offers practical, consensus-based guidance to help owners, operators and engineers optimise performance, control operating costs and maintain reliable operation with high uptime through effective thermal management.
The framework provides strategies for both new and existing facilities, covering the full data centre lifecycle, from planning and design to commissioning, upgrades and ongoing operation.
