BBVA CIB and the challenge of data centres: building a sustainable digital future
In an increasingly digital world, data centers have become critical infrastructure underpinning technological and economic progress. Their rapid growth, however, brings with it unavoidable challenges in terms of sustainability and efficiency. In this context, BBVA CIB positions itself as a strategic partner for companies, supporting them in their transition towards more responsible and resilient models capable of adapting to a constantly evolving environment.
In today’s digital age, information is the most valuable asset. Every click, message and online transaction generates vast amounts of data that must be stored, processed and managed securely and efficiently. This is where data centers come into play, critical infrastructure that acts as the nervous system of today’s connected society.
These facilities house IT systems and associated components, such as servers, data storage systems and networking equipment, in a secure and reliable environment, enabling the large-scale processing and distribution of data. They ensure business continuity, data protection, and access to the digital services that drive innovation through artificial intelligence.
BBVA Corporate & Investment Banking has extensive experience in the sector, supporting its clients with a global outlook and specialist expertise to develop the digital infrastructure of the future, underpinned by a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Data centers under scrutiny: the challenge and the sustainable opportunity
The expansion of data centers is crucial for global competitiveness and the adoption of Artificial Intelligence in the economy. At the same time, this exponential growth presents a significant challenge: how to manage its environmental impact in a world striving to combat climate change.
According to the European Union, data centers already account for 3% of the region’s electricity demand. Globally, they consume between 1% and 2% of total electricity, a figure that could double in 2030. Today they generate 0.5% of global carbon emissions, with the potential to almost triple by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency. In addition, responsible water usage has become a growing operational priority, despite clear innovation toward new designs with very low water usage. This situation highlights a paradox: while digitalisation seeks sustainable solutions, its own infrastructure can pose a challenge to the decarbonisation of the economy.
To mitigate their impact, the industry is taking action along three main axes: energy efficiency, carbon emission reduction, and sustainable water management. According to Luis Fuente, Executive Director of Sustainability & Low Carbon Transition Advisory at BBVA CIB, “one of the most promising pathways to reverse this trend is the transition to renewable energy sources. At the same time, growing pressure to move towards more sustainable computing models is driving data centers to adopt more stringent environmental standards and to report their progress with greater transparency.
"Growing pressure to move towards more sustainable computing models is driving data centers to adopt more stringent environmental standards"
In this line, Fuente adds: "An increasing number of data centers are investing in the development of solar or wind power plants combined with battery systems, ensuring a clean and stable energy supply that enables the industry to deliver its full value through digital services. There is also noteworthy innovation in cooling technologies, as well as in alternative energy sources such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and geothermal energy.”
BBVA CIB, a strategic partner in the sector’s transformation
BBVA CIB has positioned itself as a key partner for companies leading the development of digital infrastructure. With a specialised focus on digital infrastructure and telecommunications, media and technology, the bank supports its clients in their transition towards more sustainable models, combining growth and innovation with a vision aligned with the challenges facing the sector. Energy transition financing, through tailored solutions adapted to each project, has become a key lever in facilitating this transformation.
BBVA’s experience is reflected in landmark transactions across Europe. In 2021, BBVA CIB led one of the world’s first sustainable financing deals for data centers. The bank advised Nabiax, the leading data center company in Spain by installed capacity, on a transaction linking the company’s sustainability targets to the loan conditions. Today, BBVA is a leading player in data center financing and advisory in many of the markets where it operates.
With a global outlook and a firm commitment to driving the sector’s transition, BBVA CIB will continue to support its clients in the development of digital infrastructure that is more sustainable, efficient, and ready to meet the challenges of the future.