9. Identify and remove zombie or comatose servers

A "zombie server" or "comatose server" is a system that is no longer in use in data center operations, but continues to remain powered and consume unnecessary energy. Figures in an article published by ComputerWorld indicate that 25 percent of physical servers and 30 percent of virtual servers in data centers are classified as zombies or comatose. Disconnecting unnecessary zombie servers that are still running can greatly reduce power consumption and improve energy efficiency.

10. Consolidate all lesser-used servers

Despite the need to run at full power, the average utilization of a typical server is between 5% and 15%. Consolidate less-used servers and remove unneeded servers to reduce overall power consumption.

11. Virtualized server data center

It used to rely on multiple separate physical servers that took up a lot of space and power to run its operations. These servers can now be virtualized and consolidated to run more efficiently. Taking the time to virtualize data center servers can help reduce energy usage and costs by 10% to 40%.

12. Organize, delete, and improve storage data storage utilization

Typically accounting for around 30% of system power, it is common for data centers to keep 20 or more copies of the same data, resulting in wasted storage space and power. Locate and delete unnecessary excess stored data, freeing up space and energy for other devices

13. Invest in more energy-efficient technologies

Legacy servers and technology are far less energy efficient than newer models. If a data center is truly committed to reducing its power usage, it needs to invest in some new equipment.

14. Reduce or optimize data center space

This point is closely related to point 11 above, as virtualizing servers can be an excellent way to reduce the space a data center needs to function properly. Fewer physical servers are required, less space is required, and less power needs to be invested. This allows data centers to be significantly downsized while reducing overall energy usage, which in turn saves a lot of money in the long run.

15. Synchronize server capacity and equipment load

New and updated configurations waste data center power and resources when demand is low. Therefore, it is only logical to match server capacity and active hardware to meet real-time demands.

16. Develop stronger, more reliable supplier partnerships

Finding and partnering with an efficient energy supplier can save a lot of money and help a data center drastically improve the overall efficiency of its energy use.