DDI welcomes EU rating scheme for data centers

On 21 September 2026, the European Commission adopted a delegated act under the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) that sets up a common rating scheme for data centers across the EU. At the same time, the Commission opened a public consultation on minimum performance standards for data centers.

DDI has contributed to the work for several years through consultations and in dialogue with our Nordic partners and the European Data Centre Association (EUDCA).

"We have worked for this for a long time, and we welcome it. Transparency about energy and water use is good for the industry, because it gives everyone a common and comparable picture across Europe. It builds trust, and it shows what data centers actually deliver," says Henrik Hansen, CEO, Danish Data Center Industry.

What the scheme means

From 15 August 2027, all data centers in the EU with an IT power demand of at least 500 kW will receive a label based on the data they already report to the European database. The label will rate:

• Energy efficiency (PUE), from A to G
• Water use (WUE), from A to G
• The share of low-emission energy used

The label will also show whether a data center offers flexibility to the electricity grid and whether it is ready to deliver waste heat to external users.

Not new for Danish operators

Since 2024, data centers above 500 kW have reported energy use, water use, renewable energy and waste heat reuse to the EU. The new scheme brings this data together in one label that is easier to understand and compare.

"Denmark is well placed. We have a high share of renewable energy and a stable grid. Our cool climate means data centers can be cooled more efficiently than in warmer countries, and our district heating networks make it possible to use the waste heat. We are pleased that every data center is measured on the same scale, because that makes these strengths visible," says Henrik Hansen.

Data centers as part of the solution

Together with the Energy Efficiency Directive and the EU Grids Package, the rating scheme points in the same direction. Data centers should not only draw power from the grid. They should also support the energy system through flexibility, heat reuse and demand that supports new renewable energy.

"The grid is under pressure in Denmark, and we take that seriously. That is why data centers must be built and operated smarter, as an active part of the energy system. The new scheme rewards exactly that. Together with the EU's ambition to expand data center capacity in Europe and the EU Grids Package, it sets a clear direction. We hope the Danish government will build on this in the national data center strategy, so that Denmark takes its share of Europe's capacity in a way that strengthens the energy system rather than straining it," says Henrik Hansen.



Next steps

The European Parliament and the Council now have two months to review the delegated act. They can reject it but cannot change it. The Commission will review the scheme by the end of 2028.

Some details still need work, including the rules for renewable energy purchases, which are stricter for data centers than for other sectors. DDI will continue to work with the Commission, our members and EUDCA on the review, and we will contribute to the consultation on minimum performance standards.