Thailand introduces a 70 dBA noise ceiling for large data centers
New rules restrict heat emissions and wastewater discharge from computing facilities
Data center operators must recycle cooling water under Thailand’s new regulations
Thailand has introduced its first environmental regulations specifically for data centers, establishing new requirements for operators across the country. The rules cover three major areas of environmental impact: noise pollution, heat emissions and water consumption. The requirements include a 70-decibel noise ceiling for facilities operating uninterruptible power supply systems, alongside restrictions on temperature increases and wastewater discharge. Thailand introduces noise and temperature restrictions
Under the new framework, data centers must keep noise emissions around 70 A-weighted decibels (dBA) whenever their uninterruptible power supply equipment operates. This measurement accounts for differences in how the human ear perceives sound across various frequencies. The restriction covers noise from equipment supporting continuous electricity delivery inside large computing facilities. However, whether the permitted level offers meaningful relief to nearby residents depends on measurement locations, operating conditions, and enforcement. For comparison, many household hair dryers produce approximately 70 dBA during operation, although actual readings vary between models and operating speeds. Consequently, the permitted noise level does not necessarily mean neighboring communities will experience quiet conditions. Thailand has also introduced controls on temperature changes around data center properties. Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the country’s economic planning agency, said temperature increases beyond facility boundaries must remain between 1 and 2 degrees Celsius. The requirement addresses heat generated by servers and associated cooling equipment during normal operations…