Invisible but essential: ESG value of power cords

JAE RO, Marketing Manager at Signal + Power, a supplier of IEC plug connectors, discusses how selecting the right power cords through careful material choice, regulatory compliance, SKU consolidation, and lifecycle thinking can help data centres operate more sustainably without affecting performance or uptime.

- JAE RO, Marketing Manager at Signal + Power, a supplier of IEC plug connectors, discusses how selecting the right power cords through careful material choice, regulatory compliance, SKU consolidation, and lifecycle thinking can help data centres operate more sustainably without affecting performance or uptime.

As data centres work to meet growing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) demands, the spotlight usually falls on major initiatives like renewable energy, cooling innovation, and power usage effectiveness (PUE). But one smaller area can also make a significant difference: power cords.

Although they may seem minor, power cords contribute to the bigger picture of sustainability. Global electricity use by data centres is expected to hit 1,000 TWh by 20261, nearly double that of 2022. At the same time, electronic waste has already exceeded 50 million tonnes annually2, with only 17.4 per cent of it being properly recycled3, demonstrating that even the smallest components are worth closer attention.

IMPORTANCE OF CHOOSING LONG-LASTING MATERIALS

The materials and construction used in power cords have a direct effect on how long they last and how recyclable they are. Cheaper, lower-quality cords often wear out faster, which increases replacement cycles and waste. By contrast, cords made from durable, compliant materials can stay in service longer, reducing the number needed over time.