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Is a speedy, scalable and sustainable datacentre too much to ask?

Not if you look at prefabrication

The exponential growth of digital services and the increasing demand for data processing capabilities have propelled the data centre industry into a phase of significant transformation.

As sustainability becomes more important to enterprises, the data centre industry is exploring innovative solutions that can minimise environmental impact while enabling optimal performance. In this context, prefabricated modular data centres have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional data centres, offering potential sustainability benefits such as streamlined supply and waste management, energy savings and subsequently diminished carbon footprint.

Standardisation versus localisation

It's important to understand the difference between standardisation and localisation in the context of prefabricated data centre deployments. A prefabricated data centre is a modular, pre-engineered facility that is built off-site and then transported to the desired location for quick and efficient deployment. The aim is to standardise data centre designs as much as possible and break them down into building blocks that can be built off-site and constructed where needed. Operational and on-site teams across separate locations are working with the same project and designs. It's speedy, consistent, scalable and cost-efficient.

While standardisation is more widely accepted in regions such as the United States and parts of EMEA, the approach can present unique challenges due to diverse industry practices and regulations. For a successful implementation, global organisations seeking to deploy standardised solutions must carefully consider the requirements of each region. This is where the concept of localisation comes into play.

The localisation approach adjusts a standardised design to comply with local building codes, standards and regulations. This allows organisations to comply with regional requirements and expedite the deployment process, while still benefiting from many of the advantages of standardisation.

Benefits of standardisation

Prefabricated modular data centres designs integrate critical components, including advanced cooling systems and power distribution, within controlled factory conditions. The reduced construction time achieved through off-site fabrication and assembly allows for rapid deployment and commissioning, and potentially higher quality due to consistent processes.

The streamlined design and standardised components of prefabricated modular data centres contribute to ongoing operational cost savings and long-term efficiency gains, including energy-efficient cooling systems that enable optimal power consumption. The modular nature of these data centres helps organisations to scale their infrastructure in line with demand, eliminating the need for excessive upfront investment and avoiding overprovisioning.

Prefabricated modular data centres also offer significant advantages in terms of physical footprint. The modular design allows for optimal use of available space without compromising cooling efficiency. By leveraging compact and efficient cooling systems within the modular framework, data centre operators can maximise their use of physical space, particularly in urban environments where that space is limited and expensive. The reduction in physical footprint also translates to cost savings in terms of infrastructure, construction and ongoing maintenance.

Sustainability benefits

The sustainability benefits of prefabricated modular data centres can be significant and contribute to the industry's broader objectives of achieving optimal performance and environmental responsibility.

Improved energy efficiency: Prefabricated modular data centres employ standardised components and designs that prioritise energy efficiency throughout the facility. This includes the use of advanced cooling systems, eco-friendly materials, efficient power distribution and optimised equipment layouts. By reducing energy wastage and maximising efficiency, these data centres reduce their energy consumption and lower their carbon footprint.
Efficient manufacturing methods and supply chain: Prefabricated modular data centres also have the advantage of controlled factory conditions for construction and assembly. This controlled environment allows for more efficient manufacturing methods and a streamlined supply chain. Consequently, these data centres can lessen their environmental impact throughout the fabrication process. A streamlined supply chain through local sourcing, efficient material and storage practice also reduced carbon footprint.
Waste reduction and recycling: During construction, factory fabrication allows for better waste control and recycling of materials. The modular design facilitates the replacement, upgrade and disposal of components, generating as little waste as possible.
Scalability and future-proofing: Prefabricated modular data centres offer adaptability to changing business needs and technological advancements. This enables businesses to avoid expensive overprovisioning and minimises the resources required for expansion.
Advanced cooling: Prefabricated data centres also incorporate advanced cooling systems which are more energy efficient and cost effective. They provide a standardised and pre-engineered environment that seamlessly integrates chilled water systems, to enable optimal performance and scalability.
Operational reliability and serviceability: Lastly, the standardised components and design of prefabricated data centres enables easy access for maintenance and repairs, streamlining and minimising service disruptions. Enhanced operational reliability leads to uninterrupted service delivery and happier customers.

Conclusions

Prefabricated modular data centres represent a significant step towards a more sustainable future for the data centre industry. With their standardised designs, energy-efficient systems and streamlined construction processes, these data centres offer another infrastructure option to businesses who want to reduce the environmental impact of their operations.

As the demand for data processing capabilities continues to grow, prefabricated modular data centres can play a role in mitigating the environmental impact of data centre operations, paving the way for a greener and more resilient digital future.

Alex Brew is Regional Director, Northern Europe for Vertiv

Is a speedy, scalable and sustainable datacentre too much to ask?

Not if you look at prefabrication

The exponential growth of digital services and the increasing demand for data processing capabilities have propelled the data centre industry into a phase of significant transformation.

Standardisation versus localisation

Benefits of standardisation

Sustainability benefits

Conclusions

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