Facing the Data Crunch with IT Asset Disposition

As artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital services grow rapidly, data centers face a critical challenge: rising power demand. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data center electricity use has tripled over the past decade and could account for up to 12% of total U.S. consumption by 2028.

To keep pace, facilities are expanding infrastructure, drawing more power, and rethinking operations. While grid upgrades and renewable energy are essential parts of the solution, one often-overlooked strategy lies within the data center itself: managing outdated hardware.

This is where IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) plays a vital role.

The Power Behind ITAD

As data centers modernize to handle AI and high-performance workloads, they retire legacy servers and devices that continue to draw power, take up space, and require maintenance. ITAD provides a secure, responsible, and strategic way to manage this transition.

ITAD is more than recycling. It includes data sanitization, resale of reusable components, environmentally sound disposal, and compliance reporting that supports both sustainability and data security goals.

OceanTech’s Strength: Data Center Decommissioning

At OceanTech, we specialize in full-service data center decommissioning. Our process goes beyond ITAD to include secure on-site inventory, equipment removal, chain-of-custody documentation, and full environmental reporting. Whether decommissioning a single server room or an entire facility, we make sure every asset is handled efficiently, securely, and responsibly.

Our experienced team understands the complexity of decommissioning in live environments. We minimize disruptions, maintain compliance, and work closely with IT and facilities teams to ensure a smooth transition. For organizations planning migrations, consolidations, or refreshes, OceanTech provides a reliable partner from planning to final pickup.

Why ITAD Should Be Part of the Energy Conversation

There is no single solution to the energy challenge, but ITAD is one of the most practical and cost-effective tools available. Here's how it helps:

Reduces Power Consumption and Enables More Efficient Upgrades

Outdated IT equipment wastes energy and generates excess heat, increasing the strain on power and cooling systems, two of the most critical resources in modern data centers. According to a ScienceDirect study, “Data center energy consumption can be reduced by about 20–40% and 15–27% through IT equipment optimization and cooling technology improvements, respectively” (ScienceDirect, 2023).

ITAD helps reduce power consumption by removing inefficient, high-energy-use equipment. This decreases the electrical load and lowers the cooling demand needed to manage excess heat. By clearing out obsolete assets, ITAD also enables upgrades to newer, more energy-efficient systems to be implemented smoothly and securely. Certified providers ensure that asset disposition meets strict standards for safety, quality, and environmental impact, allowing data centers to scale more efficiently and sustainably (IAITAM Working Group, 2023).

Supports the Circular Economy

Reuse and resale extend the life of technology, while responsible recycling reduces the need for raw materials and lowers the environmental impact of manufacturing. According to the Global E-waste Monitor, a record 62 million tonnes of e-waste had already been generated globally in 2022. This puts us on track to produce 82 million tonnes by 2030, highlighting the urgent need for the responsible disposition of retired IT assets (Global E-waste Monitor, 2024). ITAD programs play a critical role in diverting e-waste from landfills and promoting sustainability, while helping data centers remain efficient and agile.

Improves Data Security and Upholds Environmental Compliance

Certified IT Asset Disposition providers, such as those holding R2v3 and HIPAA certifications, ensure the secure destruction of sensitive data and the responsible handling of retired devices. These certifications reflect adherence to rigorous standards for data security, regulatory compliance, and environmental responsibility. Providers with additional credentials like ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), and ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety) further demonstrate a comprehensive, accountable approach. Working with certified ITAD providers protects organizations from data breaches and supports sustainability goals by ensuring that end-of-life assets are properly managed. This allows data centers to upgrade confidently without risking data exposure or operational disruptions.

Real Results: OceanTech’s Impact

In just the first six months of 2025, OceanTech clients saw real environmental benefits from responsible ITAD. Over 29,000 pounds of equipment were recycled, reducing more than 70 pounds of toxic metals and preventing 108,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions. Over 28,000 assets were inventoried and either resold or repurposed, resulting in an estimated savings of 8.8 million pounds of CO₂.

A Smarter, Greener Path Forward

The road ahead for data centers is complex. Balancing growth, sustainability, and efficiency requires a mix of solutions. Though ITAD will not solve the entire energy dilemma, it absolutely belongs in the conversation.

While responsible asset management may not always make headlines, it delivers meaningful impact. It enables data centers to reduce energy consumption, lower emissions, and make space for the next generation of computing. In a world where every watt counts, ITAD provides a measurable and strategic advantage.