The study examines the system-integrated siting of data centers in Germany, focusing on energy supply, gas infrastructure, and waste heat utilization. Currently, data centers with a total connected load of 4.5 GW (PUE value of 1.46) are concentrated in Frankfurt (Rhine-Main), Berlin, and the Ruhr region.

The analysis shows that most data centers are located more than 1 km away from the transmission gas network and the hydrogen core network, meaning they would generally need to be supplied via the distribution grid. The current waste heat potential amounts to approximately 15 TWh per year, which could cover about 3% of the heat demand of private households.

By 2030, capacity is projected to double to 9.5 GW, and by 2045 to increase further to 24.5 GW. The waste heat potential could then rise to 89 TWh per year, covering around 16% of today’s residential heat demand.

Conclusion: Data centers are becoming a key energy and infrastructure issue. System-oriented site planning and integration into electricity, gas, and heating networks are crucial to ensure security of supply and efficiency.