
Three Steps to
SDEA Label
The SDEA certification process offers a straightforward pathway for applicants to measure their efficiency and get recognized for their commitment to sustainability – whether you're certifying your DC infrastructure, IT infrastructure, or both.

1
Account & Measurement
Create an account in the SDEA Navigator and set up one or multiple dashboards – one for each certification application.
Each dashboard provides access to three calculators that evaluate DC and IT infrastructure efficiency – either individually or combined – as well as emissions.
Enter your data (measured over 12 months) and let the SDEA Navigator calculate key efficiency markers for your infrastructure, as explained in the KPI Factsheet.
You'll be provided with detailed documentation when you register in the SDEA Navigator.
2
Certification & Scope
With all relevant data entered, click "certify" to launch the certification process. You can select one of the following certification scopes:
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DC Infrastructure Only: Focuses on your DC's energy efficiency and emissions
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DC Instance: Covers both the DC and IT infrastructure, either owned by the same organization, or if the IT is hosted in an SDEA certified DC.
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IT Infrastructure Only: Focuses on your IT's energy efficiency, independent of where it's hosted.
To attain certification, you must meet or fall below certain thresholds.
3
Audit & Validation
After submitting your data, you will engage an independent auditor to verify your KPIs and validate your efficiency and emissions metrics.
The "Certification Guide", provided to you at the beginning of the certification process, includes a list of auditors to choose from.
Once the auditor completes their review, the SDEA Board will assess the audit report to determine the label level (PLATINUM, GOLD, SILVER, or BRONZE).
If approved, you’ll receive a certification toolkit and guidelines for communicating your SDEA Label, which is valid for three years.