Regulations, the rise of AI and the energy paradox: highlights from RiT Tech’s sponsorship at DCT 2024

The RiT Tech team recently attended the Data Centre Transformation Conference hosted by the Data Centre Alliance (DCA) as a thought leadership sponsor. This fantastic event brought together leaders from across the data center industry, focusing on pivotal presentations that dissected the forces shaping our digital era such as the rise of AI, the regulatory landscape, and the multifaceted challenges posed by sustainability.

As a dedicated sponsor, RiT Tech actively contributed to these discussions, advocating for the fusion of innovation with sustainability and underscoring the critical need for Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) tools within a Universal Intelligent Infrastructure Management (UIIM) framework.

Sponsored panel: 'Regulations – Friend or Foe' 

Our sponsored session, 'Regulations: Friend or Foe?', moderated by Loren Long and featuring Mark Acton, John Booth, Luisa Cardani, and Emma Fryer, explored the increasing impact of regulatory pressures and key frameworks such as the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in Europe, which are driving notable changes in the industry.

Mark Acton highlighted the critical need for accurate metering and comprehensive data collection from diverse sources, along with the capability to act on this data. He highlighted how employing Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) tools within a Universal Intelligent Infrastructure Management (UIIM) framework can be vital for successfully navigating complex regulatory landscapes and hybrid deployments.

The two-part talk of the day: The energy paradox

The concept of the energy paradox took center stage with Simon Michaux’s compelling presentation. He outlined the inherent conflicts between energy consumption, resource availability, and sustainability imperatives and introduced a revolutionary concept termed ‘The Purple Transition’. This concept is aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels while minimizing the raw material footprint. The model is structured around four foundational technologies that collectively support a broader technological ecosystem, positing a strategic shift for a more achievable and sustainable future.

Immersing AI: The AI highway

Other panels at DCT 2024 tackled critical topics such as ‘Immersing AI,’ which examined the benefits and challenges of liquid immersion cooling technology. Experts discussed its potential for enhanced energy efficiency and superior thermal management, essential for the high-density demands of AI infrastructure, while also addressing misconceptions about implementation complexity and maintenance. In a similarly reflective presentation, John Booth (Carbon 3IT) explored the broader implications of AI for the data center sector and society at large. He highlighted both the transformative benefits, such as improved efficiency and innovation, and the potential drawbacks.

Engaging with industry leaders: networking and collaboration opportunities

Throughout DCT 2024, the RiT Tech team connected with partners and industry leaders, highlighting the conference's role as a hub for new ideas and partnerships. These interactions sparked discussions that balanced technical innovation with regulatory practicality.

The DCA’s commitment to fostering dialogue on pivotal issues and bringing together visionaries from across the sector was evident. DCT 2024 was not only insightful but marked by a palpable sense of urgency and collaboration - elements essential to navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the data center landscape.