Digital Parks Africa (DPA) has achieved a historic milestone as the first data centre in Africa to be certified as a Participant in the European Commission’s Code of Conduct for Energy Efficiency in Data Centres. This notable distinction places DPA among the world’s leading providers of sustainable digital infrastructure.
The certification, overseen by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, recognises data centres that voluntarily adopt best practices in energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. By earning this credential, DPA joins an elite group of global technology giants such as Microsoft, Equinix, and Google, reaffirming its position in the international digital landscape.
The European Code of Conduct was initially introduced in 2007 to address growing concerns over the energy demands of data centres. It has since evolved into a comprehensive framework comprising 11 chapters that cover areas including IT management, power systems, building operations, and cooling strategies. Participants are required to demonstrate ongoing improvements through annual reports and detailed action plans aimed at reducing energy consumption.
In developing this certification, Europe established a benchmark for responsible energy management in data centres. Recognising that Africa is still building its regulatory standards in this area, the European Data Centres Association is partnering with DPA to help develop an African-specific Code of Conduct to promote sustainable growth across the continent.
Wiaan Vermaak, Group Chief Commercial Officer at DPA, emphasised the significance of the achievement, stating that the certification is more than just a badge of honour. It reflects a commitment to responsible energy use, providing reassurance to hyperscalers and customers considering hosting or co-locating with DPA that its infrastructure adheres to the highest international standards. He added that this certification offers investors access to taxonomy-aligned reporting, which is increasingly vital for sustainable investment, and that DPA is the only company in Africa approved by the European Commission to provide such reporting.
The certification process involved a thorough energy audit, the submission of an action plan, and a commitment to continuous monitoring and improvement of energy performance. This ensures that DPA’s operations remain aligned with evolving European standards and that its facilities continually enhance their energy efficiency.
Bernard Lecanu, Managing Director at BL International Consultant and a key architect of the Code of Conduct, praised DPA’s accomplishment, highlighting that it reflects years of disciplined infrastructure development and operational excellence. He emphasised that ongoing reporting and energy-saving initiatives are essential to managing responsible, modern data centres effectively.
For DPA’s clients and partners, the benefits are tangible, including reduced operational costs, predictable energy consumption, and alignment with global sustainability goals. Additionally, hosting in a certified facility demonstrates environmental responsibility, boosting reputational standing across the value chain.
This achievement marks a new benchmark for the South African data centre sector. While participation in the Code of Conduct remains voluntary, it is increasingly seen as a market expectation and is likely to become a regulatory requirement in the future. DPA’s leadership signals a broader shift across Africa toward more resilient, efficient, and environmentally conscious digital infrastructure.
