London Datacentre Carbon Footprint: 27,000 Flights to New York 2026

The proposed London datacentre carbon footprint is staggering, with annual emissions equivalent to 27,000 flights to New York. This article examines the environmental impact of the East Havering Data Centre Campus (EHDCC), a hyperscale facility planned for outer London.

London Datacentre Carbon Footprint: The Numbers

According to planning documents, the EHDCC would generate more than 1 million tonnes of CO2 annually once fully operational. Over its projected 60-year lifespan, emissions could reach 72 million tonnes of CO2e, making it one of the most carbon-intensive datacentre projects in the UK.

Projected Emissions and Energy Use

The developer, Digital Reef, admits the project does not align with a 1.5°C compatible trajectory or net-zero by 2050. The campus would consume 2.65 billion kWh of electricity per year at a 50% load, equivalent to the demand of over 1 million UK households.

Impact on Decarbonisation and Resources

Donald Campbell of Foxglove called the emissions 'staggering' and a threat to UK decarbonisation. The datacentre would also strain local energy infrastructure, requiring a new 400kV substation and a 132kV connection.

Key Takeaways

• The EHDCC would emit 1.2 million tonnes of CO2 annually, equal to 27,000 transatlantic flights.
• Its electricity demand matches over 1 million UK homes, exacerbating grid pressure.
• The project conflicts with UK net-zero targets and science-based climate trajectories.
• Major grid upgrades are needed, raising concerns about resource allocation.

FAQ

FAQ

What is the carbon footprint of the proposed London datacentre?

The East Havering Data Centre Campus would generate over 1 million tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to 27,000 flights from London to New York.

How much electricity will the datacentre consume?

At a likely 50% load, the campus would use 2.65 billion kWh per year, matching the demand of more than 1 million UK households.

Why is the datacentre considered a threat to decarbonisation?

Its emissions are not aligned with a 1.5°C trajectory, and it would drain energy resources needed by homes and businesses, hindering UK net-zero goals.

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