The EPO published patent application EP4121699A1 filed by Niall Davidson for carbon negative data centers and related services. The invention integrates carbon capture and storage technology with data center operations to achieve net negative carbon emissions. Key IPC classifications include F24V 99/00 (thermal energy storage), F25B 30/06 (heat pumps), G06Q 50/10 (business methods), and G06F 1/20 (cooling systems). The application designates 31 European states for protection.

This publication serves as formal notice of the patent application's existence and initiates the examination process. Companies developing carbon-negative data center technology or operating data centers should review the application claims for potential freedom-to-operate concerns. Patent prosecution typically spans 3-5 years before grant. No immediate compliance actions are required, though technology companies may wish to assess potential overlap with their own research and development activities.