Afry Forecasts European Data Center Energy Demand to Reach 330 TWh by 2050

Afry predicts Europe's data center energy demand will rise from 75-85 TWh in 2025 to 150 TWh by 2030, reaching 330 TWh by 2050. Carlos Pérez Linkenheil discusses the role of data centers in the energy ecosystem, emphasizing grid flexibility, procurement strategies, and partnerships with energy companies. He notes stagnating demand due to efficiency gains, while decarbonization and electrification of transport and heat drive future demand, varying by location.

Published Mar 26, 2026

Afry forecasts that Europe's data center energy demand will rise from 75-85 TWh in 2025 to 150 TWh by 2030 and 330 TWh by 2050. Key factors include the need for grid flexibility, procurement strategies, and Power Purchase Agreements to manage energy costs.

AI-curated by Theia

Data centers may need to partner with energy firms or produce energy onsite to address grid constraints. Linkenheil indicates stagnation in demand due to efficiency gains, despite expectations of rising demand driven by decarbonization and electrification in other sectors. The impact of data centers on demand will vary by location, with smaller countries like Ireland potentially seeing significant contributions.