Inside a Decommission: The Sprint Norcross Data Center Teardown

by | Sep 3, 2026 | Blog, Data Center Decommissioning

Quantum Technology Sprint Norcross data center teardown case study banner titled "Inside a Decommission: The Sprint Norcross Data Center Teardown" set against a background of blue server racks.

The Sprint Norcross data center teardown was one of Quantum Technology’s largest and most complex decommissioning projects. We handled the full disassembly and removal of a decommissioned data center at 5295 Brook Hollow Parkway in Norcross, Georgia, removing generators, chillers, UPS systems, 240,000 lbs of lead-acid batteries, raised floors, and full electrical infrastructure, and restoring the space in just four weeks. If you have a facility to clear and assets worth recovering, this case study shows what large-scale data center removal actually looks like on the ground, from de-energization through final site restoration.

TL;DR: The Sprint Norcross Teardown at a Glance

 

Why Was the Sprint Norcross Data Center Decommissioned?

The Sprint Norcross data center was decommissioned because a private investor and owner needed to convert a dormant, fully equipped facility back into a marketable property. After Sprint vacated, the building was marketed as a fully equipped data center, including a brief lease to a bit mining company that could not make its lease payments. With the asset sitting idle, the owner contracted Quantum Technology to decommission the equipment, purchase it, raise cash, give the property a cosmetic boost, and re-market it as a corporate campus.

That storyline is more common than it looks. TechTarget notes that companies decommission for reasons including consolidation, expanding cloud presence, and upgrading aging infrastructure. When a tenant leaves or a portfolio shifts, the building still contains millions of dollars’ worth of mechanical and electrical equipment. Somebody has to remove it safely, capture its value, and hand back clean space. 

This is also why decommission-plus-restore work continues to grow. A municipal planning white paper from Wichita and Sedgwick County defines a proper decommissioning plan as including site restoration, proper handling of outdated hardware and materials such as batteries, coolants, and other hazardous substances, and a removal timeline. 

 

What Exactly Was Removed at Sprint Norcross?

Quantum Technology removed the complete mechanical and electrical backbone of the facility, not just a rack of servers. This is the difference between a full facility teardown and simply pulling IT gear. The published asset list from the Sprint Norcross data center included the following:

  • Three Caterpillar 2 MW generators with paralleling gear
  • Two 10,000-gallon diesel fuel tanks holding 6,000 gallons of diesel fuel
  • Four outdoor 400-ton chillers
  • Eight Liebert UPS systems
  • Twenty chilled water CRAC units
  • Twelve RPPs, twelve PDUs, and twelve air handlers with VFD controllers
  • Four battery rooms containing 240,000 lbs of lead-acid batteries, plus ferrous and non-ferrous scrap

In addition to the major MEP equipment, we removed walls, racking, and piping. This scope reflects what a real data center demolition looks like when the goal is a clean, remarketable building rather than a stripped shell.

 

Can You De-Energize and Dismantle Systems Without Taking Down the Whole Building?

Quantum Technology used its own electricians to de-energize the data center systems without disabling building power. That distinction is critical for any site that still needs lights, life safety, and base building services running while the data hall comes apart.

Keeping the building live while killing the data center load is not something you flip a switch for. This project required rewiring the building’s fire alarm and troubleshooting lighting problems in the data center. Controlling hazardous energy is a safety baseline, not an afterthought. OSHA’s lockout/tagout standard, 29 CFR 1910.147, sets out specific procedures for controlling hazardous energy during servicing and maintenance, and electrical isolation is where a decommissioning project either stays safe or goes wrong.

 

What Does “Restore to Handback Condition” Actually Mean?

Restoration means the space is left clean, safe, and ready for the next tenant, not just emptied. At Sprint Norcross, restoration was a defined part of the scope, and the details show what landlord handback really involves.

Removing the twelve air handlers left twelve 30-square-foot holes in the raised floor system. Quantum Technology reconstituted the floor by adding floor structure and filling in with raised floor panels, so the finished surface was continuous and load-bearing again. 

That last point is the tell of a professionally managed job. A crew focused only on hauling out copper does not stop to fix trip hazards. Restoration is where a decommissioning project walkthrough separates a true partner from a scrapper.

 

Can the Vendor Buy the Assets and Offset the Teardown Cost?

Yes. On the Sprint Norcross project, Quantum Technology decommissioned and purchased the assets so the owner could raise cash from equipment that was otherwise sitting idle. That is our core model. 

Generators, switchgear, UPS systems, chillers, and raised floors all carry resale or recovery value. When a vendor can recover that value, the teardown stops being a pure cost line and starts working in your favor. For property owners and REIT teams clearing a data center asset for repurposing, that changes the math on the whole project.

 

How Does a Data Center Teardown Compare to Other Approaches?

Not every vendor does the same job. Here is how an asset-recovery-plus-dismantle model compares to a demolition-only general contractor.

Dimension Asset Recovery + Dismantle  Demolition-Only General Contractor
Primary focus MEP infrastructure removal, rigging, resale, recycling, restoration Tear-out and haul-off
Value recovery Buys and resells generators, UPS systems, chillers, and switchgear Typically none
Electrical de-energization In-house electricians keep the building’s power live Usually subcontracted
Site restoration Raised floor, wall patch and paint, tile replacement Varies by contractor
Environmental handling Zero-landfill policy: ferrous and non-ferrous recycling Varies by contractor
Best fit Full facility teardown with asset value to recover Structural demolition

Data Center Knowledge notes that decommissioning involves removing IT assets and does not typically mean shutting down an entire data center, though it can be part of that process. TechTarget frames decommissioning as a cross-team effort spanning planning, inventory, compliance, and documentation, a broader approach than a demolition-only approach.

 

A Step-By-Step Guide to Dismantling a Data Center

Here is a checklist that applies to any large-scale data center removal, built on the industry framework and mapped to how the Sprint Norcross teardown actually ran. Decomm Systems publishes a seven-phase decommissioning checklist spanning planning through final review, and these steps expand it into field practice.

  1. Scope and plan. Define the asset list, roles, timeline, permits, and insurance before anyone touches a bolt. TechTarget notes that cross-functional teams typically include IT administrators, facilities personnel, security personnel, and project management personnel.
  2. Inventory and document everything. Build a full asset inventory and a disposition plan that flags items to be resold, redeployed, or recycled.
  3. Isolate power safely. De-energize the data center systems in accordance with lockout/tagout discipline. At Norcross, this was done without disabling building power, which meant rewiring the fire alarm and fixing the lighting first.
  4. Drain and secure fluids and hazardous streams. Recover refrigerant from chillers and CRAC units, drain diesel from fuel tanks, and stabilize battery rooms before any equipment moves.
  5. Remove major equipment. Rig and remove generators, UPS systems, chillers, air handlers, PDUs, and RPPs. At Norcross, this meant three 2 MW generators and four 400-ton chillers, among others.
  6. Recover assets and generate records. Redeploy, resell, or recycle each asset and produce the disposition documentation that the ESG and legal teams need.
  7. Strip structure. Remove racking, walls, and piping, and lift raised floor sections where required.
  8. Restore the space. Reconstitute the raised floor, patch penetrations, replace damaged tiles, and repaint, exactly as was done on the Sprint Norcross data center.
  9. Close out. Complete a final walkthrough, archive the documentation, and hand back a clean, marketable building.

 

What Heavy Equipment Is Needed for a Data Center Teardown?

A data center teardown requires rigging and material-handling equipment sized for the loads being moved, plus trained crews to operate it. At Sprint Norcross, the loads were substantial: three Caterpillar 2 MW generators, four 400-ton outdoor chillers, and 240,000 lbs of lead-acid batteries across four battery rooms. Moving that safely requires rigging gear, forklifts, and pallet-handling equipment for battery strings, cranes or hoists for rooftop chillers, and cutting and demolition tools for walls, racking, and piping. Just as important, it takes licensed electricians to de-energize the systems before any of it comes out.

 

How Are the Hazardous Streams Handled, and What Records Are Produced?

Regulated components are handled under specific federal rules, and each one generates a paper trail. The Sprint Norcross site carried three high-liability streams: refrigerant in the chillers and CRAC units, 240,000 lbs of lead-acid batteries, and diesel fuel.

 

For refrigerant, EPA Section 608 restricts the resale of used refrigerant to a new owner unless it has been reclaimed by an EPA-certified reclaimer. The distinction between recover, recycle, and reclaim is precise and matters in your documentation, as the EPA lays out in its definitions of refrigerant handling. Section 608 also carries recordkeeping and reporting requirements for stationary refrigeration activity.

For batteries, EPA’s universal waste rules require that any battery showing leakage, spillage, or damage be contained. EPA also notes that state universal waste programs may add requirements beyond the federal baseline, which matters for multi-state portfolios. Our battery removal services exist to handle exactly the kind of volume Norcross presented.

 

Legacy data centers can also carry clean-agent fire suppression. EPA phased out production and import of virgin halons in the United States on January 1, 1994, driven by the Montreal Protocol. If a site has Halon or FM-200, our Halon and FM-200 recovery service covers it.

 

Why Zero-Landfill Recycling Matters for Your Project

The scale of the problem is why zero-landfill recycling matters. The world generated 62 billion kg of e-waste in 2022, and only 22.3% was documented as formally collected and recycled. The World Health Organization cites the same 22.3% figure and frames e-waste as a public health issue.

 

FAQ

1. Where can we find reviews and case studies for data center decommissioning companies in the US?

Look for vendors that publish specific, verifiable projects rather than vague claims. The Sprint Norcross data center case study documents the exact asset list, the four-week duration, the private client type, and the restoration work performed. A real case study names the equipment, the site, and what was left behind, which is the standard to which any decommissioning partner should be held.

 

2. What does a typical timeline look like for a large data center teardown?

Duration scales with equipment volume, hazardous streams, and restoration scope, not just square footage. Quantum Technology completed the full Sprint Norcross teardown in 4 weeks, including three 2 MW generators, four 400-ton chillers, eight UPS systems, and full site restoration. Some projects also run a phased “pilot light” period; TechTarget notes this can last 30 to 60 days in some cases before final shutdown.

 

3. What reporting should we expect from the site supervisor during a teardown?

Expect asset inventory tracking, disposition records for what is resold, recycled, or reclaimed, and compliance documentation for regulated streams. For refrigerant specifically, EPA Section 608 carries recordkeeping and reporting requirements that should be reflected in the handover pack. A disposition process that generates certificates, as outlined in the Decomm Systems checklist, is what ESG and legal teams will want on file.

 

4. What is included in data center decommissioning versus just removing IT gear?

Full decommissioning covers the mechanical and electrical infrastructure, structural elements, and site restoration, not only the servers. The Quantum Technology data center decommissioning service covers disconnection, removal, rigging, demolition, recycling, and restoration. At Sprint Norcross, that meant generators, chillers, UPS systems, batteries, walls, racking, piping, and a reconstituted raised floor, all in one managed scope.

 

Works Cited

Reuse vs. Recycling: Zero-Landfill Data Center Decommissioning

Reuse vs. Recycling: Zero-Landfill Data Center Decommissioning

by | Sep 2, 2026 | Uncategorized

Zero-landfill data center decommissioning is a teardown method that prioritizes reuse first and responsible recycling second, ensuring the vast majority of removed assets are resold, repurposed, or properly recycled rather than dumped. At Quantum Technology, that means we disconnect, remove, rig, and demolish your physical infrastructure, then route each asset to its highest and best outcome under a documented, R2-certified decommissioning process.

 

TL;DR: The Fast Version

  • The world generated 62 billion kg of e-waste in 2022, and only 22.3% was formally collected and recycled in an environmentally sound way (ITU, 2024a). That gap is exactly what a zero-landfill data center decommissioning process is built to close. 
  • The US EPA waste management hierarchy ranks reuse ahead of recycling, and recycling ahead of disposal, so a responsible data center disposal approach prioritizes resale first (EPA, 2025b). 
  • The U.S. lead battery recycling rate is 99%, which is why spent UPS strings almost always route to recycling rather than reuse (EPA, 2025a). 
  • R2 downstream controls exist to track material flow to final disposition, according to the Summary of R2v3 Requirements, so you can prove what actually happened after equipment left your building, which is the foundation of credible data center recycling.

 

What Does Zero Landfill Data Center Decommissioning Actually Mean? 

Zero-landfill data center decommissioning means diverting infrastructure components from landfills. Instead, equipment follows a decision path: resell it if it holds market value, repurpose it if a second life exists, or recycle it responsibly with documented disposition when reuse is no longer feasible.   

 

The honest part matters here. “Zero landfill” is only credible if you define the accounting boundary. Validation frameworks handle accounting boundaries differently: 

  • Silver: 90%–94% diversion rate (includes waste-to-energy)
  • Gold: 95%–99% diversion rate
  • Platinum: 100% diversion rate
  • TRUE Zero Waste (GBCI): Requires a minimum of 90% diversion away from landfills, incineration, waste-to-energy, and the environment over a 12-month period (GBCI, n.d.; USGBC, 2025). 

 

Accounting details matter: UL notes that waste-to-energy produces ash that generally ends up in landfills, which separates a legitimate diversion claim from a marketing line. 

 

Why Does This Matter Right Now? 

It matters because recycling is not keeping pace with equipment coming out of service, and because data centers themselves are generating more end-of-life events than ever before. The ITU and UNITAR Global E-waste Monitor 2024 documented 62 billion kg of e-waste in 2022, of which only 22.3% was formally collected and recycled in an environmentally sound manner (ITU, 2024a). The ITU news release summed it up plainly: the world is generating record e-waste and recycling far too little (ITU, 2024b). The WHO e-waste fact sheet confirms the same 2022 figure (WHO, 2023). On the positive side, the ITU also notes that formal recycling in 2022 avoided a meaningful amount of upstream emissions, much of it tied to recovered refrigerants and to avoided mining, which is a direct argument for routing equipment through controlled channels rather than informal ones. 

 

At the same time, data center capacity is scaling quickly enough that decommissioning is becoming a recurring operational event rather than a rare one. The Department of Energy has documented U.S. data center electricity use climbing from 58 terawatt-hours in 2014 to 176 terawatt-hours in 2023, and the updated 2025 report projects consumption reaching between 521 and 843 terawatt-hours by 2030 (LBNL/DOE, 2025). That pace of growth means more retrofits, consolidations, and facility relocations, and each one produces a wave of infrastructure that needs a responsible exit path. 

 

Reuse vs. Recycling: What Is the Difference, and Which Comes First? 

Reuse extends an asset’s working life by returning it to service or reselling it; recycling recovers the raw materials when the asset itself can no longer be used. The EPA waste management hierarchy places reuse above recycling (EPA, 2025a), and the EPA pollution prevention page lays out the full order: source reduction, reuse, recycling, treatment, and disposal (EPA, 2026a). Applied to a data center, that order becomes a working rule. A functional UPS, switchgear lineup, or generator with resale value should be evaluated for reuse before anyone reaches for a recycling bin. When an asset is spent, contaminated, or rendered unsafe for return to service, recycling becomes the responsible endpoint. Disposal is the last resort we design out. 

 

The catch is that “recycle it” only counts if you can prove where it went. That is where R2 downstream tracking comes in, and it is why data center recycling through a certified partner differs from handing pallets to a broker (Sustainable Electronics Recycling International, n.d.). A partner’s business model matters here too: a company with a genuine resale channel, including warehouse space to receive, refurbish, and ship recovered equipment, is structurally motivated to push assets up the hierarchy toward reuse rather than defaulting to recycling by weight. 

 

Reuse vs. Recycling by Equipment Category 

Cisco describes core data center components, including UPS, cooling systems, fire suppression, and backup generators. The Idaho National Laboratory Data Center Playbook maps the power path through switchgear, transformers, UPS systems, and PDUs down to the IT racks (INL, 2026), and Legrand references UPS, switchgear, and transformers as core critical-power elements (Legrand, 2025). Those categories are exactly what we plan for in a teardown. 

 

Here is how the reuse-first rule plays out across the streams we handle:

Simplified material stream handling process: reuse-first rule for data center decommissioning

Equipment category Primary outcome Why Key control
Switchgear, transformers Reuse/resale where feasible High residual value, long service life, and long replacement lead times make refurbished gear valuable Screen older transformers for PCB risk per EPA TSCA rules
UPS systems (units) Reuse/resale where feasible Marketable to secondary buyers Batteries removed and routed separately
UPS battery strings Recycling Spent lead-acid batteries hit a 99% U.S. recycling rate, per the EPA lead-acid battery case study Universal waste handling per 40 CFR part 273
Chillers, CRAC, HVAC Recover refrigerant, then reuse or recycle Venting is prohibited under the Clean Air Act Section 608, and resale of used refrigerant is restricted unless reclaimed by an EPA-certified reclaimer Certified refrigerant recovery per EPA Section 608 guidance
Generators Reuse/resale where feasible; drain fluids Strong secondary market Used oil managed under 40 CFR part 279
Racks, cabling, raised floor Recycle commodities Low reuse value; high material recovery; feeds a large existing scrap metal market Weigh and document by stream
Circuit boards, mercury lamps Recycling under Focus Materials controls Listed R2 Focus Materials Downstream verification per R2v3
High-voltage switchgear insulating gas (SF6) Recover, do not vent SF6 is a potent greenhouse gas used in circuit breakers and gas-insulated switchgear Recovery per EPA SF6 emission-reduction guidance

 

How Do I Make Sure Equipment Is Recycled Responsibly and Not Sent to the Landfill? 

You make sure by choosing a partner whose recycling is governed all the way to final disposition, not just to the loading dock. According to SERI’s R2 overview, R2 covers the primary facility and its downstream vendors to ensure electronics are responsibly reused or recycled at every step (SERI, n.d.-b). The Summary of R2v3 Requirements states that Appendix A exists to ensure requirements are met throughout the downstream chain until final disposition, which includes verifying downstream vendors and tracking and documenting flows. 

 

That is the difference between a real zero-landfill outcome and a hopeful one. A broker-only handoff loses the trail the moment pallets leave the site. A partner with downstream chain governance keeps verifying and documenting, so contamination or a bad downstream vendor cannot quietly turn “recyclable” into “landfilled.” SERI even maintains a directory of R2-certified facilities you can use to check any vendor’s claim (SERI, n.d.-c). 

 

Why Is R2 Certification Important When Choosing a Data Center Recycler? 

R2 certification is important because it evaluates and monitors a business against a published standard designed to protect the environment, worker health and safety, and communities, according to SERI’s FAQs. For a teardown, that means your data center e-waste recycling is judged against consistent rules rather than a vendor’s word.

 

R2 also governs hazardous streams through its Focus Materials list, which the R2v3 summary identifies as circuit boards, batteries, mercury, CRT glass, and PCBs. Those are the materials most likely to cause harm if mishandled, and they are common in aging infrastructure. 

 

How Does Quantum Technology Handle Regulated Materials? 

We handle them by identifying regulated streams up front and routing each through the appropriate compliance path. Getting this wrong is not a minor issue; it is a legal one.

 

  • Refrigerants. The EPA states that Section 608 of the Clean Air Act prohibits the intentional venting of refrigerants when disposing of refrigeration and AC equipment and sets certification and recordkeeping requirements for the use of approved recovery equipment. The EPA’s Section 608 reclamation guidance also restricts the resale of used refrigerant unless it has been reclaimed by an EPA-certified reclaimer. Our refrigerant recovery service captures refrigerant from chillers and CRAC units before removal.
  • PCBs. The EPA issues PCB disposal approvals under TSCA, permits storage under 40 CFR 761, and requires PCB transformer owners to register their transformers using Form 7720-12. Older transformers and electrical gear carry this risk, so we screen for it before we touch them.
  • Batteries. UPS battery strings fall under EPA universal waste rules in 40 CFR part 273. The EPA lithium-ion battery FAQs warn about fire risk and note that once a battery reaches a destination facility for recycling, it becomes fully regulated hazardous waste (EPA, 2026b). Our battery removal service packages and routes these safely. On a recent project, this stream alone accounted for hundreds of thousands of pounds of lead-acid batteries collected at a single facility, illustrating why battery handling deserves a dedicated process rather than being an afterthought.
  • Used oil. Generator and hydraulic fluids are managed under 40 CFR part 279. The same EPA source notes that re-refining used oil requires only about one-third as much energy as refining crude oil to lubricant quality, which is a clean reuse story when the stream applies.

 

Can You Track Recycling Rates for a Zero Landfill ESG Report? 

Yes. We provide closeout documentation designed to support your ESG reporting efforts. GRI 306: Waste 2020 provides disclosures for reporting waste impacts (GRI, 2020a), and the GRI 306 standard PDF requires the total weight of hazardous and non-hazardous waste diverted from disposal and directed to disposal, broken out by recovery and disposal operation (GRI, 2020b). 

 

We reverse-engineer our reporting from that requirement. Your packet links weights by stream to disposition methods and links electronics-controlled streams to vendor verification and flow records, using the tracking described in the R2v3 summary. The result is a diversion figure grounded in documented disposition rather than rough estimates. In the world of sustainability, transparent tracking is essential, which is exactly why data center recycling documentation matters as much as the recycling itself. 

 

How Does a Responsible Teardown Actually Run? A 10-Step Checklist 

  • Recover refrigerants before disposal. Refrigeration and AC equipment get their refrigerant recovered first, per EPA Section 608 guidance.
  • Disconnect and remove infrastructure safely. Generators, battery-powered UPS systems, cooling towers, pumps, cabling, racks, HVAC, and fire suppression come out under plan per our decommissioning scope.
  • Apply the reuse-before-recycle rule. We prioritize resale and reuse where feasible, then recycle, following the EPA hierarchy.
  • Route regulated streams correctly. Batteries move under universal waste rules, used oil under 40 CFR part 279, and PCB materials under TSCA.
  • Control and document downstream outcomes. We verify downstream vendors and track the flow to final disposition, in accordance with the R2v3 downstream chain requirements.
  • Weigh and categorize material streams. Metals, cabling, batteries, and electronics are weighed and sorted by disposition type to provide accurate documentation rather than relying heavily on post-project estimates. 
  • Document disposition against a defined boundary. We confirm whether energy recovery is counted as diversion, in line with the accounting clarity established by frameworks such as UL 2799. 
  • Deliver closeout reporting for ESG. You receive weights by stream and disposition method to support GRI 306 disclosures.

 

Not All “Zero Landfill” Vendors Are Equal 

The claim is easy to make but harder to back up. Use these comparison points when you screen partners.

Simplified material stream handling process: reuse-first rule for data center decommissioning

Factor Self-attested vendor Governed, R2-certified partner
“Zero landfill” basis Slogan, boundary undefined Diversion boundary defined; validation frameworks like UL 2799 exist
Diversion definition Often landfill-only Can address landfill, incineration/WTE, and environment, per TRUE
Downstream visibility Ends at the dock Tracked to final disposition per R2v3
Regulated materials Variable Refrigerant, PCB, battery, and oil controls built in
ESG documentation Weight tickets, maybe Weights by stream mapped to GRI 306
Certifications Claimed R2, ISO 14001, and ISO 9001 on our Certifications page

 

Start Your Teardown With a Partner Who Can Prove It 

You have infrastructure to clear and an environmental commitment to keep. Quantum Technology delivers nationwide data center decommissioning services that prioritize reuse first, responsible recycling second, and documented disposition to support your ESG reporting. That is what a responsible data center teardown looks like when R2-certified decommissioning is done right. 

 

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I make sure my data center equipment is recycled responsibly and not sent to landfill?

Choose a partner whose recycling is governed by final disposition. R2 covers the primary facility and its downstream vendors, so material is responsibly reused or recycled at every step, per SERI. Request downstream vendor lists and flow records, and verify the claim against the SERI facility directory.

 

2. What environmental and recycling certifications should a decommissioning vendor hold?

Look for R2, which the R2v3 summary shows enforces Focus Materials handling and downstream tracking, as well as environmental and quality management systems.

 

3. How do I confirm a vendor’s recycling meets R2 or e-Stewards standards for data center e-waste recycling?

 

Verify the certification directly rather than taking the vendor’s word for it. SERI maintains a directory of R2-certified facilities you can search, and you should request the downstream vendor verification and tracking records that R2v3 requires

.

4. Can you help track recycling rates for a Zero Landfill ESG report on our teardown?

Yes. We report weights by material stream and disposition method to support the total-weight, diverted-versus-disposed structure required by GRI 306: Waste 2020, and we pair electronics streams with documentation.

 

5. Why is R2 certification important when choosing a partner for responsible data center disposal?

R2 evaluates and monitors a business against a published standard, according to SERI, that is designed to protect the environment, worker health and safety, and communities. For infrastructure teardowns, it governs the exact hazardous streams that matter most: circuit boards, batteries, mercury, CRT glass, and PCBs.

 

Works Cited

 

Data Center Decommissioning: The Complete 2026 Guide

by | Jul 10, 2026 | Blog

Data Center Decommissioning in 2026: The Complete Guide to Cutting Costs, Staying Compliant, and Recovering Real Value

TL;DR

  • U.S. data centers consumed 176 TWh in 2023 (4.4% of total U.S. electricity), with projections indicating that they will account for 6.7%–12.0% of total U.S. electricity consumption by 2028 (LBNL/DOE).
  • “What are the common hidden costs in data center deconstruction projects?” is addressed fully in the FAQ. North American data center vacancy rates have plummeted to a record low of 1.6% in H1 2025, driven by AI and hyperscaler demand (CBRE).
  • Large power transformer lead times are commonly quoted at 36 months, with a maximum of 60 months (DOE).
  • The data center decommissioning process consists of 6 phases: scope definition, planning, dismantling, waste removal, asset recovery, and site restoration. Poor management of any single phase is the primary cause of cost overruns.
  • “How much does it cost per square foot to completely dismantle a data center and return it to a ‘white box’ condition?” is answered in the FAQ. Asset recovery from generators, UPS systems, switchgear, and transformers can meaningfully offset the cost of decommissioning your data center, but only if removal is planned with resale in mind from day one.

Why Is Data Center Decommissioning Suddenly a Board-Level Conversation?

The process of decommissioning old data centers is becoming a critical strategic priority. The reasons for data center decommissioning are both urgent and multifaceted, warranting thorough discussion before the first server is powered down.

A growing concern within the data center industry is the escalating energy consumption of these facilities. The 2024 report Energy Usage in the US Data Center Sector, sponsored by the Department of Energy (DOE) and supported by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), found that U.S. data centers consumed 176 TWh of electricity in 2023, equivalent to 4.4% of the nation’s total electricity consumption. Projections through 2028 suggest this figure could rise to between 6.7% and 12.0% of total U.S. electricity use. For context, global data center electricity consumption was estimated at 415 TWh in 2024, with the U.S. accounting for approximately 45% of that total. This disproportionate share underscores the urgency of addressing energy efficiency, and data center decommissioning is one of the most effective strategies for reducing consumption.

A second major driver of data center decommissioning is the record-low vacancy rates in North American data centers. According to CBRE’s H1 2025 Data Center Trends Report, the vacancy rate for powered data center space has dropped to an unprecedented 1.6%. This scarcity is primarily driven by hyperscale companies and AI workloads, which have created an insatiable demand for new capacity. In the first half of 2025 alone, net absorption of powered data center space reached 2,497.6 MW, an all-time high. The result is a significant opportunity to unlock value from underutilized data center real estate, further accelerating the need for data center decommissioning projects.

Compounding this issue are the extended lead times for critical power infrastructure. Large power transformers, for example, are now commonly quoted at 36 months, with some orders taking up to 60 months to fulfill. This bottleneck makes the recovery of existing assets, such as generators, UPS systems, and switchgear, an attractive option for offsetting the cost of decommissioning the data center. However, this value can only be realized if the data center decommissioning process is planned with resale in mind from the outset.

What’s Actually Driving Decommissioning Projects Right Now?

Is “Everyone Moving to the Cloud” Really Why Decommissioning Is Booming?

The narrative that cloud migration is the primary driver of data center decommissioning is oversimplified. While cloud adoption is growing, the reality is more nuanced. A recent Uptime Institute survey of 262 data center operators revealed that only 25% reported “widespread use” of public cloud platforms. Another 44% reported “somewhat” or “widespread” use, while 40% had not moved any production workloads to the cloud in the past 12 months. Of those who did migrate, 64% found their cloud spending exceeded expectations.

Decision-makers often ask: “Give me a list of companies that will remove my data center and pay me for the equipment.”

In practice, data center decommissioning projects are often triggered by lease expirations, site consolidations, or equipment obsolescence. Many server rooms contain a mix of equipment vintages, requiring selective removal and recycling of outdated assets while retaining functional systems. A thorough pre-decommissioning inventory is essential to identify which assets should be removed, repurposed, or recycled. This inventory should include all IT equipment, power and cooling infrastructure, cabling, and associated furniture. Once compiled, this data informs decisions about asset disposition, ensuring that the data center decommissioning process is both efficient and cost-effective.

Are New Data Center Builds Actually Creating Decommissioning Demand?

Yes, new data center construction is a significant driver of demand for data center decommissioning. According to Uptime Institute, 95% of surveyed operators are planning new builds or expansions to increase capacity. AI workloads are a major factor, with 59% of operators investing in new power and supply infrastructure to support AI requirements. As a result, 74% of operators expect to raise power prices over the next two years. This trend is not merely about reducing infrastructure but about replacing outdated, inefficient systems with higher-density, more efficient capacity. In this context, data center decommissioning is often a prerequisite for modernization, creating a steady pipeline of projects for data center teardown companies.

Q: What Does Data Center Decommissioning Actually Cover, and What Doesn’t It?

Is Data Center Decommissioning the Same as ITAD?

“I have a data center I need to dismantle. Is there anyone that specializes in doing this?” Quantum Technology is built specifically for this.

No, data center decommissioning and IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) are distinct processes. Data center decommissioning refers to the removal of heavy mechanical and electrical (M&E) infrastructure, such as generators, UPS systems, switchgear, and transformers. In contrast, ITAD focuses on the secure disposal of data-bearing IT equipment, including servers, storage systems, and networking devices. In a full-facility teardown, companies typically engage a data center dismantling services provider for the M&E infrastructure and an ITAD specialist for the IT assets. This division of labor ensures that experts in their respective fields handle both aspects of the project.

“Give me a list of companies that will remove my data center and pay me for the equipment.” A specialized data center teardown company with an asset recovery model is what you need. The data center decommissioning process is inherently a facilities-based project. It may include the removal of generators, UPS equipment, switchgear, transformers, fuel systems, chillers, CRAC units, power distribution equipment, and cable trays. Many of these assets are heavy and valuable, making their proper dismantling and recycling critical to recovering value. Given the complexity and safety risks involved, it is rarely cost-effective for clients to manage this process in-house. Instead, hiring a specialized data center teardown company is the most efficient approach, much like hiring a demolition contractor for a building teardown.

Complete the Data Center Decommissioning Process

Establish the Scope of the Project for Data Center Decommissioning

A common question: “What is the step-by-step process for safely decommissioning a data center without disrupting ongoing business units?”

Scoping a data center decommissioning project is akin to scoping a construction project. The most common reason for budget or schedule overruns is an inadequately defined scope. Many project managers never ask “What are the common hidden costs in data center deconstruction projects?” until mid-project. Many stakeholders assume they understand what data center decommissioning entails, but this assumption often leads to costly mistakes. A well-defined scope must address four key elements: boundary definition, end-state requirements, dependency mapping, and asset disposition.

Boundary definition: Clearly define whether the data center decommissioning process includes or excludes support systems such as UPS systems, generators, chillers, switchgear, transformers, fuel systems, piping, cable trays, and fire suppression systems. If these systems are included, specify how they will be decommissioned and disposed of. If excluded, identify who is responsible for their decommissioning. Environmental regulations may also require separate permits for certain systems, adding another layer of complexity.

End-state definition: Budget planning often begins with the question: “How much does it cost per square foot to completely dismantle a data center and return it to a ‘white box’ condition?”

The landlord or building owner’s expectations for the decommissioned space are paramount. Do they require a “broom clean” condition, or must the space be restored to its original “shell condition” as defined in the lease? Understanding these requirements upfront is critical to avoiding disputes and additional costs. Always review the lease agreement before beginning the scoping process to ensure alignment with the landlord’s expectations.

Dependency mapping: Identify which systems must remain operational during the data center decommissioning process. Life safety systems, shared electrical rooms, and other tenants in multi-tenant facilities can impose significant constraints on the project. A dependency map created early in the process helps prevent costly surprises, such as discovering mid-project that a UPS system slated for removal is still supporting a critical shared system.

Decisions on Asset Disposition: Determine the fate of each major asset type (e.g., servers, storage, UPS systems) early in the scoping process. Will the assets be resold, recycled, or demolished? The method of removal and packaging for transport can significantly impact the value recovered from these assets. Decisions made on the day of removal are often suboptimal, so planning is essential to maximizing asset recovery and minimizing decommission data center cost.

Data Center Teardowns: Safety First

Safety planning for a data center teardown is complex due to the presence of live electrical systems, stored energy in batteries, pressurized refrigerant lines, and heavy equipment. The confined spaces typical of data centers further complicate the process. A comprehensive safety plan must account for OSHA’s Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) standard (29 CFR 1910.147) for electrical equipment, as well as additional regulations for utility systems (29 CFR 1910.269).

The LOTO standard is the cornerstone of safe power-down procedures. The data center dismantling services provider must develop a site-specific safety plan that addresses all aspects of the scope of work. This plan should be reviewed with facility management and all personnel involved in the project. Workers must understand the facility’s LOTO program and how it applies to the specific tasks at hand. In facilities with high-voltage equipment, additional OSHA requirements, such as those outlined in 29 CFR 1910.305 (Electrical Wiring) and 29 CFR 1910.094 (Workplace Ventilation), may also apply.

Avoid data center dismantling service providers that offer generic safety plans. A plan tailored to your data center’s specific layout, breaker levels, and equipment is essential for safe execution. A generic plan may overlook critical details, increasing the risk of accidents during data center decommissioning.

Where Do Decommissioning Projects Hit Environmental Compliance Delays?

Environmental compliance is one direct answer to “What are the common hidden costs in data center deconstruction projects?” Environmental compliance is also a frequent source of delays in data center decommissioning projects. Key areas of concern include refrigerant leaks from chillers and battery leaks from UPS systems. Refrigerants are regulated under the Clean Air Act Section 608 (40 CFR Part 82) and must be recovered, recycled, or reclaimed by certified technicians. Similarly, lithium-ion batteries from UPS systems and battery cabinets are classified as universal waste under 40 CFR Part 273 and require careful handling to prevent fire hazards.

Lithium-ion batteries pose unique challenges due to their potential for thermal runaway. Proper disposal requires adherence to federal universal waste regulations, including specific packaging, labeling, and transportation requirements. Delays often occur when multiple technicians and specialized equipment are needed to manage different types of refrigerants and batteries. For example, recovering refrigerants from chillers can be time-consuming, particularly if the data center has multiple cooling systems with different refrigerant types.

The Global E-waste Monitor 2024 report highlights the growing problem of e-waste, with 62 billion kilograms generated globally in 2022. Only 22.3% of this waste was properly recycled, while 80% was disposed of in landfills or burned unsafely. The report projects that e-waste will reach 62 billion kilograms by 2030, with the percentage of properly recycled waste continuing to decline. Responsible data center decommissioning can help reverse this trend by ensuring that decommissioned assets are recycled or reused whenever possible.

How Do You Select the Right Vendor for Data Center Dismantling Services?

When clients ask, “Give me a list of companies that will remove my data center and pay me for the equipment,” the differentiator is a documented chain-of-custody process. In full-facility data center decommissioning, three types of partners are typically required: a data center dismantling services provider for infrastructure removal, an ITAD provider for IT asset disposition, and a general contractor or specialty trades firm for building restoration. These partners must work in sequence, with the data center dismantling services provider leading the effort, followed by the ITAD provider, and finally the restoration team. Attempting to consolidate these roles under a single vendor often leads to suboptimal outcomes, as the vendor may lack the specialized expertise required for each phase.

When selecting a data center teardown company, ask the following questions to assess their capabilities:

  • “What is the chain-of-custody process for removal of high-value assets, from disconnection through truck pickup to resale?”
  • “Do you provide a serialized list of all removed assets (e.g., make, model, nameplate rating, images) before removal to establish value?”
  • “Can you support removal on a tight schedule, including nights and weekends, to meet lease deadlines?”
  • “How have you handled refrigerants on past jobs, and what documentation do you provide for refrigerant recovery?”
  • “How do you handle unexpected issues during de-energization, such as unmarked wires or discrepancies between drawings and as-built conditions?”

Companies asking “I have a data center I need to dismantle. Is there anyone that specializes in doing this?” should focus on infrastructure removal experience, safety certifications, and asset recovery capability. Look for a data center teardown company with specific examples of past work. Avoid vendors that provide only general descriptions of their processes without concrete examples. For large or complex projects, a vendor with experience in similarly scaled data center decommissioning projects is essential for ensuring a smooth and successful outcome.

What’s the Right Execution Sequence to Avoid Expensive Mistakes?

Project managers ask: “What is the step-by-step process for safely decommissioning a data center without disrupting ongoing business units?”

The sequence of asset removal in a data center teardown is more critical than in other types of facility projects. Improper sequencing can damage valuable assets, create safety hazards, or disrupt active systems. Below is a general sequence used by experienced data center dismantling service providers, though adjustments may be necessary based on site-specific conditions.

  1. Document before you touch anything. Create a detailed inventory of all assets, including photographs and condition assessments.
  2. De-energize safely. Confirm de-energization of all circuits and equipment before removal, and document the process.
  3. Remove IT racks and cabling first. IT cabling and server racks are typically the least hazardous and most valuable assets. Removing them first opens up space for subsequent work.
  4. Remove UPS systems and battery banks. Batteries require specialized handling and documentation. Address them before upstream electrical distribution to minimize risks.
  5. Remove switchgear and power distribution units. With loads disconnected, it is safe to address the distribution infrastructure.
  6. Mechanical Cooling: Schedule certified technicians to remove refrigerants from chillers, cooling towers, or CRAC units. These services are often in high demand, so book them well in advance.
  7. Remove generators and transformers last. These are typically the highest-value assets and the most difficult to rig and transport. Removing other equipment first simplifies the removal of the other equipment.
  8. Site Restoration and Closeout Documentation. Restore the site to the landlord’s specifications and compile all documentation, including refrigerant recovery logs, battery disposal records, and recycling manifests. Both the landlord and tenant should sign a final site turnover checklist to confirm completion.

How Does Asset Recovery Actually Reduce Your Decommission Data Center Cost?

Asset recovery is a powerful tool for offsetting the cost of decommissioning a data center. The process involves working with a data center dismantling services provider to sell decommissioned assets on the organization’s behalf. Given the extended lead times for new power infrastructure, such as the 36- to 60-month wait for large power transformers. Used equipment can be a valuable resource for other data center operators. According to CBRE’s North America Data Center Trends H1 2025 report, power delivery is the primary constraint in data center site selection, creating strong demand for used power equipment.

When calculating “How much does it cost per square foot to completely dismantle a data center and return it to a ‘white box’ condition?” asset recovery potential changes the total. Not all decommissioned equipment will have resale value. Older IT equipment and specialized systems may be sent to recycling facilities. However, even in aging data centers, high-value power and IT equipment can offset a significant portion of the decommissioning costs. 

Companies asking “Give me a list of companies that will remove my data center and pay me for the equipment.” should look for revenue-share or value-offset models. Planning for asset recovery should begin as early as possible, with the buyer involved in scoping the demolition and removal process. The rigging plan, trucking logistics, and removal sequence should all be optimized to protect high-value assets and maximize their resale potential.

Restore the Data Center Site to Original Conditions (After Decommissioning)

What Are the Specific Restoration Requirements After a Data Center Teardown?

Restoration requirements are typically defined in the lease agreement and can vary significantly. Common terms include “broom clean,” “as is,” or “original shell condition.” A recent case involving a major bank highlighted the importance of clarity in these terms, as a team of five people resolved a $600,000 discrepancy in restoration costs. Understanding the lease requirements upfront is essential to avoiding costly disputes.

Modern data center decommissioning projects often involve tearing down facilities to make way for new, sustainable construction. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tracks construction and demolition (C&D) debris, and many organizations are now required to report the percentage of materials diverted from landfills in their Corporate Sustainability Reports (CSRs). Key restoration tasks include:

  • Removing anchor bolts from the floor and filling the resulting holes.
  • Sealing all cable penetrations through floors, walls, and ceilings.
  • Removing supports for abandoned pipes and conduit.
  • Restoring life safety systems, such as fire detection and suppression.

Documentation is critical to the closeout process. This includes recycling manifests, refrigerant recovery logs, battery disposal records, and a signed list of all items restored to operational condition. In multi-tenant facilities, shared systems can complicate restoration, making thorough documentation even more important.
“I have a data center I need to dismantle. Is there anyone that specializes in doing this?” The comparison below shows scope differences to understand before engaging a vendor.

Comparison: Full-Facility Decommissioning vs. Partial Infrastructure Removal

Factor Full-Facility Decommissioning Partial Removal of Data Center Infrastructure
Scope All IT + mechanical + electrical removed; space returned to the shell Selected systems removed; others remain operational
Safety complexity High,  full de-energization required Very high, ive/dead adjacency creates LOTO complexity
Environmental permits Refrigerant recovery, battery disposal, C&D waste tracking Same requirements for affected systems
Vendor coordination Dismantling + ITAD + GC are typically required Dismantling specialist + facility coordination
Asset recovery potential Highest,  full inventory available for resale Moderate, limited to removed systems
Timeline Weeks to months depending on facility size Days to weeks
Lease implications Full surrender documentation required Partial modification; may require landlord sign-off
Common triggers Lease exit, cloud migration, site consolidation Capacity right-sizing, system upgrade, partial modernization

 

Your Step-by-Step Data Center Decommissioning Checklist

What Are the Exact Steps to Execute a Decommissioning Project Without Disrupting Operations?

If you are asking, “What is the step-by-step process for safely decommissioning a data center without disrupting ongoing business units?” this checklist provides the practical framework.

Below is a step-by-step checklist for decommissioning a data center while minimizing disruptions to ongoing operations.

  1. Pull lease documents to review surrender requirements and create an “end state” to work backward from when scoping the project.
  2. Define the scope of work in writing for full-facility data center decommissioning. Include all IT assets, mechanical and electrical infrastructure, and cabling. Outline what systems are excluded (e.g., piping) and specify responsibilities for subsequent phases, such as demolition, restoration, and lease-up. Ensure the scope aligns with the lease surrender terms and accounts for adjacent operational spaces.
  3. Commission a full asset inventory of all data center assets, including nameplate ratings and photographs. Assess the condition of major mechanical and electrical assets to estimate the cost of decommissioning the data center and develop a removal and segregation plan.
  4. Identify Specialist Vendors: Engage a data center teardown company for infrastructure removal, an ITAD provider for secure data destruction, and a general contractor or specialty trades for restoration. Establish relationships with these vendors early, as they book up quickly.
  5. Create a detailed site-specific safety plan outlining procedures for safe deactivation of equipment, in compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 (Lockout/Tagout). Address potential electrical and mechanical hazards, as well as the safe handling and disposal of batteries and other hazardous materials.
  6. Refrigerant recovery: Schedule EPA 608-certified technicians to recover all refrigerant before the project begins. Note that these technicians are often in high demand and may not be available on short notice.
  7. Remove assets in the correct order: IT and cabling first, followed by UPS/batteries, switchgear/PDUs, mechanical cooling, and finally generators/transformers. Document the pre- and post-removal condition of major assets.
  8. Battery Disposition Management: Dispose of batteries in accordance with 40 CFR Part 273 (universal waste) regulations. Retain documentation of disposal, including the destination facility, disposal manager, and transportation conditions.
  9. Complete site restoration: Patch all penetrations in the building’s exterior, remove abandoned supports and conduit stubs, and reset life-safety systems (e.g., fire alarms, sprinklers) to ensure proper operation for future use.
  10. Assemble and deliver the closeout package: A complete closeout package answers “What are the common hidden costs in data center deconstruction projects?” by documenting every expense upfront. Include all documentation required to prove completion of the data center decommissioning process, such as recycling manifests, refrigerant recovery logs, battery disposal records, and a signed turnover checklist confirming the facility has been returned to the required end state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q – What is the step-by-step process for safely decommissioning a data center without disrupting ongoing business units?

The data center decommissioning process for an environment with active business units begins with a detailed dependency map. This map identifies which systems must remain operational and defines the minimum power-down sequence for safe decommissioning. The practical approach is phased removal, with clearly defined “live/dead” boundaries at each phase. For example, Phase 1 might involve removing IT racks in confirmed inactive areas, while the UPS and switchgear supporting adjacent spaces remain live and protected behind documented barriers.

A common mistake when addressing “What is the step-by-step process for safely decommissioning a data center without disrupting ongoing business units?” is assuming technical expertise alone ensures success. Active business units are directly affected by decommissioning, so maintaining open communication is critical. Provide daily status updates to stakeholders and designate a single point of contact for issues. Notify business units of planned outages well in advance to prevent disruptions. The most costly error, unplugging the wrong circuit, can be avoided through proper planning and communication.

How much does it cost per square foot to completely dismantle a data center and return it to a “white box” condition?

The decommissioned data center cost per square foot varies widely based on facility density and the amount of electrical and mechanical infrastructure. Large data centers with high-density power and cooling systems (e.g., chillers, UPS systems, generators, transformers) incur significantly higher removal costs. Additional hidden costs can quickly escalate the total decommission data center cost, including:

  • Refrigerant recovery from cooling systems.
  • Disposal of lithium-ion batteries from UPS systems.
  • Repairing and fire-stopping penetrations in floors, walls, and ceilings.
  • Discrepancies between as-built documentation and actual conditions, which may require rework or additional permits.

To answer “How much does it cost per square foot to completely dismantle a data center and return it to a ‘white box’ condition?” directly: A small server room with basic infrastructure may cost thousands of dollars to decommission, while a large, multi-megawatt data center could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to restore to a “white box” condition. To obtain an accurate estimate, engage a qualified data center dismantling services provider to develop a detailed scope of work and cost breakdown based on a site visit and review of as-built documentation.

Give me a list of companies that will remove my data center and pay me for the equipment.

You need a data center teardown company that specializes in asset recovery or revenue-sharing models. These companies evaluate the infrastructure, create a serialized inventory of the equipment removed, and either purchase the assets outright or assist in selling them on your behalf. Revenue from asset sales can be applied as a credit against the decommissioned data center cost.

Quantum Technology is one such provider, offering data center decommissioning services for mechanical and electrical infrastructure. They maximize returns on high-value assets like generators, transformers, and switchgear. Their services include planning, labor, and equipment for safe removal, ensuring optimal resale value. Given the current demand for used power equipment, driven by extended lead times for new transformers, partnering with a data center teardown company like Quantum Technology can significantly offset the cost of decommissioning a data center.

What are the common hidden costs in data center deconstruction projects?

Hidden costs in data center decommissioning projects can quickly inflate the budget. Five major hidden costs include:

  1. Refrigerant Recovery: The cost of recovering refrigerants from cooling systems, including technician time, containers, and documentation, is often overlooked.
  2. Battery Disposal: Lithium-ion batteries from UPS systems and battery cabinets are classified as universal waste and require specialized packaging, shipping, and disposal, which are not typically included in standard recycling quotes.
  3. Hole Repairs and Fire-Stopping: Data centers often have dozens or hundreds of penetrations in floors, walls, and ceilings. These must be repaired and fire-stopped to meet building codes and lease requirements.
  4. As-Built Discrepancies: Differences between as-built documentation and actual conditions can lead to rework, additional permits, and unexpected costs during data center decommissioning.
  5. Interference with Live Systems: Discovering that supposedly inactive systems are still supporting live operations can cause significant delays, particularly if the project has a rigid timeline.

Three additional, often overlooked costs include:

  • Filling penetrations in data center floor slabs.
  • Patching and fire-stopping holes in walls, raised floors, and ceilings.
  • Project delays caused by unexpected live systems, such as an unused UPS or an HVAC component still in use by another tenant.

The highest hidden cost in data center decommissioning is working with a vendor that fails to document all scope items in a written agreement. A detailed scope of work, reviewed and approved before signing a contract, is the best way to avoid unexpected expenses.

I have a data center I need to dismantle. Is there anyone that specializes in doing this?

Yes, several companies specialize in data center dismantling services and can handle the entire data center decommissioning process, including the removal of mechanical and electrical infrastructure. These companies are equipped to safely dismantle complex assets such as generators, UPS systems, switchgear, transformers, and cooling equipment. They also offer asset recovery services, allowing you to reuse or resell high-value equipment.

Quantum Technology is a leading provider of data center dismantling services, offering end-to-end solutions for data center decommissioning. Whether you have a small server room or a large, multi-megawatt facility, they have the expertise to safely remove all infrastructure. 

Their services include asset recovery, where high-value items are sold back to manufacturers or on the open market. A detailed removal plan and site-specific safety plan are created before work begins, and the site is restored to its original condition upon completion. Quantum Technology operates across North America and can provide a fixed-price quote after a scoping visit.

Works Cited

CBRE. North America Data Center Trends H1 2025: AI and Hyperscaler Demand Lead to Record-Low Vacancy. CBRE, 2025, www.cbre.com/insights/briefs/north-america-data-center-trends-h1-2025-ai-and-hyperscaler-demand-lead-to-record-low-vacancy.

U.S. Department of Energy. Large Power Transformer Resilience Report. DOE, 2024, www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2024-10/EXEC-2022-001242%20-%20Large%20Power%20Transformer%20Resilience%20Report%20signed%20by%20Secretary%20Granholm%20on%207-10-24.pdf.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Energy Usage in the US Data Center Sector. LBNL, 2024,https://eta-publications.lbl.gov/sites/default/files/2024-12/lbnl-2024-united-states-data-center-energy-usage-report_1.pdf 

Uptime Institute. 2024 Data Center Industry Survey. Uptime Institute, 2024, https://datacenter.uptimeinstitute.com/rs/711-RIA-145/images/2024.GlobalDataCenterSurvey.Report.pdf .

United Nations University. The Global E-waste Monitor 2024. UNU, 2024, https://ewastemonitor.info/the-global-e-waste-monitor-2024/ .

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Construction and Demolition Debris Material-Specific Data. EPA, 2024, www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/construction-and-demolition-debris-material.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. 29 CFR 1910.147 – The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout). OSHA, www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.147.