Modeling Critical Success Factors for Green Energy Integration in Data Centers

Panos T. Chountalas (), Stamatios K. Chrysikopoulos, Konstantina K. Agoraki and Natalia Chatzifoti
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Panos T. Chountalas: Department of Business Administration, University of Piraeus, GR-18534 Piraeus, Greece
Stamatios K. Chrysikopoulos: Department of Business Administration, University of Piraeus, GR-18534 Piraeus, Greece
Konstantina K. Agoraki: Department of Business Administration, University of Piraeus, GR-18534 Piraeus, Greece
Natalia Chatzifoti: Department of Business Administration, University of Piraeus, GR-18534 Piraeus, Greece

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 8, 1-22

Abstract: The rising energy demands of data centers combined with increasing sustainability requirements require the integration of green energy solutions. This study identifies and analyzes the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) that affect the effective adoption of green energy in data centers, addressing both technical and organizational challenges. Through a systematic literature review and expert validation, eleven key CSFs were identified, encompassing aspects such as energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, carbon neutrality strategies, regulatory compliance, and investment strategies. This study employs the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) methodology to explore the interdependencies among these factors, mapping causal relationships within the CSF network. The findings indicate that governance and organizational culture, along with investment strategy, are the most influential CSFs, driving the effectiveness of energy transition efforts. Carbon neutrality strategies serve as a crucial mediating factor, linking governance and financial commitment to operational sustainability outcomes. Additionally, renewable energy integration and regulatory compliance act as structural mediators, ensuring that governance-led sustainability initiatives result in practical, measurable impacts. These insights provide a strategic roadmap for data center operators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to prioritize interventions that promote a resilient and sustainable energy transition. By clarifying the cause-and-effect dynamics within the green energy adoption framework, this study contributes to the development of more effective policies and investment strategies aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of data centers and enhancing their long-term sustainability.

Keywords: green energy integration; data centers; critical success factors; sustainability; energy efficiency; renewable energy adoption; carbon neutrality; governance; investment strategy; DEMATEL methodology (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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