Servers In U.S., Europe,
Japan Are Power Hogs
By Marianne Kolbasuk McGee

Koomey

The worldwide consumption of energy to power computer servers, cooling equipment, and related infrastructure gear doubled from 2000 to 2005, and the U.S. devoured about 40 percent of that. But by 2010, if current trends continue, the U.S. will still be a server power-hog, only not quite as big of a pig, relatively speaking, says new research conducted by Jonathan Koomey, with Berkeley Lab’s Environmental Energy Technologies Division. The Asia-Pacific region -- excluding Japan -- will increase its server-related power consumption, while the U.S.'s chunk of the power consumption pie will shrink, says the report, entitled "Estimating Regional Power Consumption By Servers, A Technical Note." Full story.

Berkeley Lab management would like to reaffirm to all employees its commitment to maintain and respect a diverse workforce, free of discrimination of any kind. In adopting and sharing its “Principles for a Diverse Community,” Lab administration recognizes a diverse and inclusive workforce as “an invaluable asset to innovation and research excellence.” Among those principles are a pledge to maintain an environment “characterized by respect, fairness and inclusion.” Go here to read the principles.

Say Goodbye, Thanks
To Fleming Monday

Fleming

A tribute to former Berkeley Lab Deputy Director Graham Fleming’ will take place Monday, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the cafeteria. Friends and colleagues are invited to stop by to say goodbye and share memories with him as he embarks on a sabbatical leave. He was Chu’s deputy since 2004; many of his achievements are summarized in this story.

The Cafeteria coffee bar will close today at 2 p.m. in preparation for the Lab holiday party. Next Monday-Thursday, it will close at 2:30 p.m., and at 1:30 p.m. on Friday. Next week’s menu will not be published accommodate an inventory process. A 25 percent discount will be given on See’s Candy, Peet’s Coffee and Teas and other holiday food items, as well as Lab-logo items, including shirts, hats, mugs and blankets) will be marked down.

Help Lab Save Energy
During Holiday Break

This year’s holiday shutdown will start at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 21 and continue through Tuesday, Jan. 1. The shutdown offers significant opportunities for saving energy. Before leaving for the break, staff are asked to set back thermostats and turn off nonessential lighting and equipment. Those who will be here during the shutdown should be aware that a minimum work force will be on hand to continue essential functions, such as safety, mail, and plant operations. Go here for more details.