PDU 5.0 – Green Tech for the Next Generation of Data Centres
The latest generation, Schleifenbauer PDU 5.0, was developed in collaboration with more than 40 data centre operators. The system combines measurement accuracy, modularity and circularity, and is suitable for all modern data centre types:
• Enterprise data centres
• Colocation data centres
• Edge data centres
• Hyperscale data centres
• AI and HPC environments
The PDU 5.0 also supports the most demanding GPU servers such as SuperMicro, NVIDIA DGX, HGX, and similar high-density platforms. Thanks to its high processing capacity and hot-swappable communication modules (Gateway, Controller and Daisy Chain), the PDU 5.0 provides the ideal balance between energy efficiency, safety and integration.
Unlike previous generations, the PDU 5.0 has no physical display. Instead, it uses the PDU Display App, which connects to the PDU via NFC. This gives users full access to measurement data, settings and energy information directly on their smartphone – without any additional energy consumption from displays or screens.
Smart Energy Control: Measuring Means Saving
Each Schleifenbauer PDU measures power consumption per input, branch and outlet, and makes this data available via REST API, SNMP, Modbus/TCP and Syslog.
This level of transparency drives behavioural change: just like a car with a fuel gauge, simply measuring leads to 5–10% energy savings.
In data centres with hundreds or even thousands of PDUs, that can mean potential savings of up to 500,000 kWh per year, equivalent to a CO₂ reduction of over 1.5 tonnes.
Our Intelligent PDUs also provide insight into Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), while Managed PDUs include smart hardware that helps identify and remotely switch off idle or inefficient servers.
Circular Design: Upgrade Instead of Replace
At Schleifenbauer, we design products for long lifespans and minimal environmental impact.
A good example is the Inline Meter PDU, which enables customers to upgrade existing basic PDUs into measurable versions without replacing them. By retrofitting their installed base, customers extend the lifecycle of their hardware, reduce waste, and support the principles of the circular economy.
All of our products are produced build-to-order: we only manufacture what is sold. This means no stockpiling, no overproduction, and no unnecessary storage or transport – combining efficiency, precision and sustainability in one process.
Sustainable Innovations in Every Component
Schleifenbauer was among the first in the market to introduce several energy- and eco-saving innovations:
• Bi-stable relays – consume no energy in their resting state, up to 90% more efficient than conventional relays.
• Near Zero Voltage Switching – prevents inrush peaks and extends equipment lifespan.
• Fully PVC- and halogen-free – safer for people and the environment, with no toxic emissions.
• Recycled plastics – housings are made from recycled material wherever possible.
• 100% recyclable aluminium – every PDU can be fully reused at the end of its life.
• Packaging-free PCB deliveries – even our printed circuit boards are supplied without plastic or polystyrene.
Responsible Production and a Sustainable Supply Chain
All our production takes place in the Netherlands, close to our European customers and suppliers.
Our PDU components are sourced in the Netherlands, and what cannot be obtained locally comes from Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, or the United Kingdom. We select partners based not only on quality, but also on sustainability and ethical sourcing of raw materials such as tin, tungsten, tantalum and gold.
All suppliers are actively encouraged to deliver packaging-free wherever possible. This now applies to nearly all components – from connectors and outlets to PCBs.
We generate virtually no waste, and what remains is carefully sorted for recycling. Our processes are ISO 9001:2015 certified and entirely paperless – quotations, invoices and transport documents are handled digitally.
There is no water waste in our production process, and we continuously improve through weekly management evaluations.
Unique in Europe: Packaging-Free Delivery to the White Space
One of Schleifenbauer’s most innovative sustainability initiatives is our packaging-free transport solution.
We deliver PDUs directly into the data centre white space, without the use of cardboard, plastic or polystyrene.
For this, we use specially designed reusable transport trolleys, which keep PDUs secure during transit and ready for immediate installation.
This concept eliminates paper and plastic waste, saves installation time, and helps data centres meet their own ESG and sustainability goals.
Schleifenbauer is currently the only PDU manufacturer in Europe to offer this level of packaging-free delivery – a tangible example of Green Tech in action.
EcoVadis Silver: Top 15% Worldwide
In May 2025, Schleifenbauer achieved the EcoVadis Silver rating, placing us among the top 15% of companies worldwide.
This recognition reflects our progress in environmental management, human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement.
Our CO₂ emissions have continued to decline:
• Scope 1 (direct emissions): significantly reduced through fleet electrification and more efficient building energy management.
• Scope 2 (indirect emissions): fully switched to 100% renewable electricity from solar and wind sources.
• Scope 3 (value chain): lowered through local sourcing, CO₂-neutral carriers and packaging-free logistics.
Our Route to Net Zero
Schleifenbauer has committed to a clear CO₂ reduction roadmap through 2030:
• Scope 1: -25%
• Scope 2: -40%
• Scope 3: -35%
To reach these targets, we are implementing measures such as:
• Using CO₂-neutral transport partners.
• LED lighting throughout all facilities.
• Digital workflows instead of paper.
• Renewable energy contracts with local suppliers.
• Process optimisation to further reduce residual waste.
• A fully electric vehicle fleet to serve our customers sustainably.
Sustainability Beyond Technology
At Schleifenbauer, sustainability extends far beyond products.
Our organisation is flat, flexible and people-focused, offering equal opportunities to all – including individuals with disabilities, different backgrounds, or those distanced from the labour market.
We also support social initiatives, such as the Nioki Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Schleifenbauer funded a workshop and medical laboratory for local prosthetic production – allowing patients to receive treatment faster and more effectively.
This blend of technological innovation and social responsibility reflects our broader commitment to sustainability.
Green Tech as a Culture
For Schleifenbauer, Green Tech is not a trend but a culture.
Every decision – from product design to transport logistics – is guided by one question:
“How can we make this smarter, cleaner and more efficient?”
Through local manufacturing, energy-efficient technology and packaging-free logistics, Schleifenbauer and its partners are building a more sustainable digital future.
Conclusion
Green Tech is not a vision – it’s daily practice.
Schleifenbauer combines innovation, circularity and responsibility in every aspect of its operations.
With the PDU 5.0, a near-zero-emission supply chain and packaging-free delivery into the white space, Schleifenbauer empowers data centres of every scale – from AI to hyperscale – to achieve their sustainability goals.
