News

Vertiv launches free cooling unit for data centres

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity products, has announced a significant upgrade of its thermal management product portfolio with the introduction of the next-gen Vertiv Liebert EFC free cooling unit with low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant. It is designed to meet stringent environmental standards for data centre applications, including colocation and cloud services, and is now available across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) with capacities ranging from 150 to 450 kW. Vertiv Liebert EFC combines the capabilities of indirect air-to-air heat exchange and evaporative cooling principles in a single unit. The innovative patented polymer heat exchanger and the new low-GWP inverter driven compressor technology significantly enhance annual efficiency by up to 19% compared to previous technologies, allowing a pPUE (partial Power Usage Effectiveness) as low as 1.05. One of the standout benefits of the Liebert EFC is its extreme flexibility, Vertiv tells us. Based on onsite-specific conditions, a live toggling control feature allows users to seamlessly and securely reduce the use of critical resources like power or water via software controls, to leverage the free cooling mode. This flexibility empowers data centre owners to reduce their climate impact while enabling continuous cooling, regardless of site-specific resources. Models are available with full direct expansion (DX) back-up with a remote condenser, to supply the entire cooling capacity without any water requirements - offering full water independence, without impacting reliability. "As businesses prioritise sustainability strategies, customers are increasingly seeking innovative cooling solutions that reduce resource consumption while offering operational flexibility and resilience," states Sam Bainborough, Vice President, Thermal Business EMEA at Vertiv. "The Liebert EFC, with its game-changing and patented technology, addresses these needs with a flexible system that delivers an entirely new experience for the customer, maximising time using free cooling and leveraging the natural power of evaporation.” The new Liebert EFC complies with current global regulations and bans (EU F-Gas regulation 2024/573, and IPCC AR4), offering a turnkey solution engineered for future scalability, easy maintenance, and durability. The polymer design offers improved corrosion resistance and also allows a wider range of water qualities during operation when compared to an aluminium heat exchanger. At the core of this innovation is Vertiv Liebert iCOM and its control algorithms, which manage automatic transitions between the most suitable working modes, enabling use of the preferred cooling source. The controls also enable seamless coordination of units, allowing them to function as a unified system, enhancing cooling continuity and reliability without the need for an additional plant management system. For more from Vertiv, click here.

Huber+Suhner introduces ribbon innovation for data centres

Huber+Suhner has introduced a new Ribbon End-to-End Solution for the streamlining and optimisation of data centre infrastructure. As the global data centre industry continues to experience significant growth in both traffic and demand, the product - which integrates key components such as LISA, IANOS, OptiRibbon cables, and the Ribbon Splice Box (RSB) - delivers the efficiency and scalability required for modern operations. “The increasing need for high data transmission rates and improved efficiency in data centres has driven us to develop an advanced solution that not only enhances connectivity but also simplifies operations,” says Vanesa Alias, Vice President of Product Management at Huber+Suhner. “With our Ribbon End-to-End Solution, customers not only benefit from reduced installation time and improved cable management, but also a future-proof network architecture.” The Huber+Suhner Ribbon End-to-End Solution offers a comprehensive, high-density fibre optic connectivity system, ensuring seamless data transmission, optimised network performance, and reduced complexity in cabling infrastructure. The solution enables splicing up to 60% faster than current market offerings, significantly improving installation efficiency. Through the extensive expertise in fibre optics demonstrated by Huber+Suhner, the Ribbon End-to-End Solution enables seamless scalability, allowing data centres to effectively adapt to evolving technological requirements. It offers high-performance density cabling that minimises space requirements and enhances airflow within data centres. The streamlined installation process also reduces deployment time and complexity, while a future-ready architecture ensures scalability to meet growing bandwidth demands and consistent performance in mission-critical environments. For more from Huber+Suhner, click here.

Giga Computing to evaluate advanced data centre technologies

Giga Computing, a subsidiary of GIGABYTE, has announced a joint technical study with Start Campus to explore and evaluate the integration of advanced data centre technologies and infrastructure. The study examines integration of modular AI server hardware, management software, and sustainable infrastructure practices, paving the way for next-generation data centre solutions. The joint study will assess Giga Computing’s advanced GIGAPOD platform and GIGABYTE POD Manager to ensure seamless integration into AI-ready data centre infrastructures like SINES DC. The evaluation will focus on optimising energy efficiency, AI-driven operations, and strengthening overall system resilience. GIGAPOD: Powering high-performance AI workloads GIGAPOD is a scalable modular computing cluster solution designed for exceptional performance. It consolidates up to 256 GPUs in a compact configuration, leveraging GIGABYTE AI servers and liquid cooling technology to ensure stable operation under intensive workloads. Each 42U rack in the GIGAPOD system accommodates up to 64 GPUs, each with a power consumption of up to 1kW, requiring only five racks for complete deployment. With Giga Computing’s thermal design, GIGAPOD minimises energy consumption while maintaining peak performance. When deployed in AI-ready data centres, it enables the achievement of industry-leading energy efficiency standards, Giga Computing claims, significantly reducing environmental impact and setting a new benchmark for modern data centre design. Complementing the hardware is GIGABYTE POD Manager, an advanced software programme designed to streamline the operations, enhance resource allocation, and ensure uninterrupted uptime. With integrated monitoring capabilities and predictive analytics, data centre operators can achieve higher energy efficiency and reliable performance. SINES DC: A benchmark for AI-ready deployments Giga Computing selected SINES DC’s SIN01 facility as a real-world case study to demonstrate how advanced AI workloads can be deployed at scale. SINES DC’s AI-ready infrastructure, with its robust power and cooling systems, supports high-density rack deployments of up to 200kW. This makes it an ideal environment for cutting-edge computing solutions requiring superior performance and energy efficiency, such as the GIGAPOD. Engineered for next-generation workloads, SINES DC is designed for and already operating with liquid-cooled, high-density racks. Its unmatched energy efficiency is achieved through an ocean-water cooling system that preserves water resources, setting new standards for sustainable, high-performance AI deployments. Redefining new standards in AI-ready performance The study explores practical deployment scenarios at SINES DC for Giga Computing’s GIGAPOD platform in two configurations, featuring NVIDIA HGX B300 and NVIDIA HGX B200 GPUs. As part of the study, the GIGAPOD modular computing solution and GIGABYTE POD Manager software will be analysed for their performance and efficiency under varying operational scenarios in data centre deployments. The study will also consider how location-specific challenges and global connectivity requirements influence data centre design. This technical study collaboration between Giga Computing and Start Campus represents a significant milestone in next-generation data centre innovation, balancing the demands of high-performance computing with sustainability. The 1.2GW SINES DC campus, combined with cutting-edge solutions like GIGAPOD and GIGABYTE POD Manager, is poised to become a new benchmark for modern data centre design, powering Europe’s AI-driven future. Daniel Hou, General Manager of Giga Computing, states, “Our joint technical study with Start Campus underscores our commitment to driving innovation in data centre technology. By demonstrating how GIGAPOD can seamlessly integrate into cutting-edge facilities like SINES DC, we’re proving how scalable, high-density solutions will be key in enabling optimal performance and efficiency as AI workloads grow more complex.” Robert Dunn, CEO of Start Campus, adds, “Engaging in this joint study with Giga Computing allows us to explore innovative data centre design solutions that meet the evolving demands of AI and cloud services. It confirms that SINES DC is ready to support the next generation of AI compute, while proving valuable insights for the design of our campus expansion. As AI workloads continue to evolve, scalable, high-density solutions like GIGAPOD will be critical in shaping the future of data centre infrastructure.”

Data centre demand surges, but supply chain struggling to keep up

The latest research from construction and property management consultant, Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB), reveals that while demand for data centres is rising faster than expected, supply chain constraints are creating significant challenges. More than 70% of respondents believe the supply chain is struggling to keep pace, and 53% fear that the sector will be unable to meet capacity demands. RLB’s annual Data Centre Trends report, based on insights from 535 stakeholders across data centre operators and contractors in the UK and Europe, indicates that while fewer respondents see supply chain risks increasing compared to last year, prices continue to climb and the chasm between demand and supply is widening. Key findings include: Capacity surging• Commissioned capacity has surged by nearly 300% since 2023, with operators averaging 47MW each this year.• 63% agree that the influx of private equity investment is intensifying demand for data centre materials and infrastructure. Growth of the retrofit market• The market for data centre retrofits is expanding, with 66% of respondents planning to retrofit at least a quarter of their estates in the next five years. Rising demand for power• AI is driving soaring demand for energy, power density and liquid cooling.• 73% of respondents say power density requirements from data centre occupants are increasing.• 73% of those surveyed anticipate that small modular reactors (SMRs) will become a widespread power source for data centres in Europe in the next 15 years.• By 2030, operators expect 61% of their estates to be liquid cooled. Escalating price pressuresRespondents estimated that price increases across key areas will rise +5% YOY, including: 3.0% uninterruptable power supply 2.8% battery energy storage systems 2.2% generators. Mitigating supply chain risksWith the need for proactive planning and early supplier engagement, RLB says it is no surprise that:• 44% of operators and contractors are leveraging technology to track suppliers and assets.• Only, 32% have implemented risk-sharing clauses in their contracts.• However, only 21% have broadened their supply base, and under one in five (19%) of respondents have adopted vendor managed inventory agreements. Nikki Venetsanakis, RLB’s Head of Advanced Tech, comments, “With demand growing faster than expected, delivering projects on time and within budget requires a strategic, proactive planning approach. Innovation and collaboration - particularly through early supplier engagement - will be key to ensure scalable, sustainable infrastructure for the future.” To read the full report, click here. For more from RLB, click here.

nLighten introduces nConnect network service platform

nLighten, a digital infrastructure platform and a frontrunner in the European edge data centre market, has launched nConnect, its new network service platform which will deliver versatile network services across all nConnect enabled nLighten data centres throughout Europe. Through the nConnect platform, businesses can seamlessly connect to data centres, internet, and cloud providers, ensuring high-performance and low-latency access across Europe. Built on a resilient, route-diverse network spanning 12 of nLighten’s 34 edge data centre locations, the platform is supported by the latest data centre networking architecture. nConnect provides clients with a range of services, including Cloud Connect, DC Connect, Direct Internet Access (DIA), and IP Transit (IPT), all integrating with their presence in nLighten data centres. This ensures "effortless connectivity and streamlined network integration,", according to nLighten, offering clients: - Quick provisioning and flexible bandwidth options- Latest data centre networking architecture supporting segmentation, DDoS protection, and advanced analytics- Standardised SLA and pricing model with no long-term contracts- One-stop shop for multiple services, reducing complexity and costs Joachim van Collenburg, VP of Product Management at nLighten, highlights the advantages of nConnect, stating, “With nConnect, customers benefit from ultra-fast provisioning, flexible bandwidth options, and the latest data centre networking architecture. This is particularly valuable for businesses looking to establish an edge performance hub in a new region, or enterprises seeking cost-effective disaster recovery solutions with built-in geo-redundancy.” nConnect is now available in four of the seven markets where nLighten operates, including: - The Netherlands: Amsterdam (AMS1 and AMS2)- Germany: Frankfurt (FRA1)- France: Paris (PAR2)- United Kingdom: Birmingham (BHX1), Bristol (BRS1), Chester (MAN1), Leeds (LBA1), Liverpool (PLP1), Milton Keynes (LTN1), Nottingham (EMA1), and Swindon (BRS2). A phased rollout to additional nLighten edge data centres is planned later this year, ensuring low latency and high-performance connectivity across Europe. Data privacy is a cornerstone of nConnect, and the platform thus delivers a high-performance, resilient network using best-in-class intelligent networking technology. Private Ethernet networks and protected IP services ensure secure and efficient data handling, making nConnect ideal for AI-driven, high-density, and critical environments. Businesses can take advantage of nConnect services immediately to enhance their connectivity, scalability, and resilience. For more from nLighten, click here.

NorthC inaugurates data centre in Switzerland

NorthC Group has announced that it has officially opened its data centre in Winterthur, Switzerland. Its fourth data centre in the country, the Winterthur site is an important hub for regional data communication and offers companies access to a wide range of connectivity providers, such as Colt, Gas&Com and Init 7. Located strategically near the Turm Areal, the newly opened data centre combines a central location with colocation and connectivity services in an area of approximately 1,100m². In Winterthur, NorthC offers tailored colocation services, secure and direct cloud connections, and guaranteed bandwidths and speeds for business-critical applications. Links to NorthC’s data centres in Münchenstein (Basel) 1&2 and Biel (Bern) via a high-speed backbone offer a seamless, reliable connection to a large number of cloud and IT service providers. The new data centre has a capacity of 1.8 MW, with expansion options for further growth. The data centre runs on 100% renewable energy and, in accordance with the company's sustainability strategy for 2030, the intention is to launch projects in Winterthur that will dissipate residual heat in a sensible and environmentally friendly manner. Patrik Hofer, Managing Director Switzerland, NorthC, comments, "Regionality is very important to us - we offer regional data centre services with an international reach. After Münchenstein and Biel, we now also inaugurate our data centre and new office here in Winterthur. The demand for data centre outsourcing, connectivity services and hybrid cloud solutions is constantly increasing among companies from various industries. With our regional approach, we can offer customised solutions for businesses in the Winterthur region that meet the highest standards of quality, security and sustainability. Work regionally and be globally connected: the data stays local, the reach is global." Dr Ralph Peterli, Managing Director of the Winterthur Chamber of Commerce and Employers' Association, adds, "Winterthur is home to many technology leaders from a wide variety of sectors. Whether they are large corporations or SMEs, all companies manage ever-increasing volumes of data and must be able to guarantee their security at all times. It's good to know that NorthC is a regional company that offers stable and secure IT infrastructures in the city." For more from NorthC, click here.

Feature - Why is Green IT so important?

By Eric Herzog, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Infinidat. Green IT is an essential component of an enterprise IT strategy, because it prioritises practices and technologies that target reducing the environmental impact of IT operations, whilst also saving on operational expenses. This includes minimising energy consumption, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable disposal of technology products. Interest among enterprises in Green IT has grown significantly in recent years, driven by environmental concerns, cost savings and regulatory pressures. This transition to Green IT is crucial because the environmental impact of data centres and IT infrastructure is huge and growing rapidly, especially given the interest in AI applications. At present, data centres worldwide consume 1-2% of overall power, but this percentage is projected to rise to 3-4% by the end of the decade, according to Goldman Sachs. It emphasises the very urgent need for sustainable IT practices. It’s especially important in tech-heavy industries like banking, finance and telecommunications. Recent research conducted by IDC in 2024 indicates that increased power consumption by data centres was largely driven by the surge in AI workloads and edge computing. During the period 2025 to 2028, electricity consumption is expected to more than double, with a CAGR of 19.5%, reaching 857 Terawatt hours (TWh) in 2028. In the AI data centre sector this rate is even higher, with energy consumption rates forecast to grow at a CAGR of 44.7%, reaching 146.2 TWh by 2027. The reason for this disparity this is very clear. On average, a ChatGPT query needs nearly 10 times as much electricity to process as a Google search, according to research published by Goldman Sachs. Plus, AI models often require constant training and fine-tuning, leading to prolonged periods of high energy consumption. By adopting Green IT practices, enterprises can not only contribute to a more sustainable future but will also reduce their operational costs (OpEx). This article will illustrate how, by adopting enterprise storage solutions optimised for environmental efficiency, enterprises will get a head start on best practice. So, what should green conscious buyers be looking for when they invest in enterprise storage? Storage arrays designed with sustainability in mind One of the best ways that an enterprise can cut energy consumption within its storage infrastructure is to consolidate the number of arrays being used. If you are wondering how to identify what ‘too many arrays’ looks like, an enterprise usually finds itself ready for storage consolidation when it’s experiencing storage array sprawl. This is an overloaded storage infrastructure caused by years of bringing in a different array for one or two workloads at a time, in a piecemeal fashion. By consolidating, enterprises can benefit in three key ways: • Access to the latest power-efficient hardware and software designed to minimise energy consumption.• An opportunity to make ongoing energy savings through telemetry-based optimisation. This provides real-time power and cooling consumption data, for continuous power usage monitoring and optimisation.• All-round reduced footprint, because consolidating multiple storage arrays into a single, more efficient platform cuts down on the floor space requirements too. For instance, a financial services company could replace over 288 floor tiles of legacy arrays with 61 floor tiles of advanced arrays optimised for energy efficiency, resulting in a reduction of over four times in data centre floor space and 62% reduction in total power consumption. Vendor commitment to operational decarbonisation Perhaps the simplest way that enterprise buyers can assure themselves they are making inroads with Green IT programmes is to opt for vendors that are taking this priority seriously inside their own organisations. There are three key ways vendors can be signalling to procurement heads that their storage solutions meet these requirements. Firstly, through integrated ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) reporting. Vendors that are proactive in this space will be ‘walking the talk’, incorporating ESG principles into every aspect of their operations, from supply chain management to technology development. Secondly, through a documented commitment to reducing Scope 3 Emissions. These are the indirect emissions within an enterprise’s total carbon footprint that exist in the upstream and downstream value chain. Controlling Scope 3 emissions is particularly important, because they typically make up the largest portion of a company's carbon footprint, often accounting for more than 70% of total emissions. As a company, Infinidat is proud to have achieved a 41% reduction in total carbon footprint across our own value chain, encompassing Scope 3 emissions. Lastly, through continuous investment in the development of power-efficient products. Infinidat continuously upgrades its product lines to deliver ongoing higher performance with the lowest possible energy consumption. Compare competitors for storage energy efficiency You might expect that all enterprise storage vendors would have similar environmental credentials, but the reality is very different. Some solutions are significantly more energy-efficient than others. Independent analysis shows that the ‘greenest’ arrays deliver 2.5 to 4.5 times better power efficiency (watts/TB) compared to other enterprise-class storage competitors. Consider this comparison above of publicly available power and capacity information detailing the consumption rates of two leading enterprise storage vendors to illustrate the point. And take this analysis a step further to consider your own environment using the energy efficiency calculator. Estimate the savings to be made both in terms of OpEx and carbon footprint by clicking here. What next? There are three very tangible benefits to be seen from using energy efficient storage solutions for Green IT. • Lower OpEx – because reduced power consumption translates directly into lower operational expenses.• Reduced Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions – because by minimising energy use you can achieve a lower carbon footprint, supporting Green IT and environmental sustainability goals.• Improved ROI/TCO – because the combination of lower OpEx and increased efficiency results in a better return on investment and lower total cost of ownership. Clearly, Green IT must become an essential component of every enterprise IT strategy. We cannot continue unchecked, on the current trajectory of power consumption. As the explosion of generative AI continues, enterprises will need to regain control of their energy usage and find ways to embrace this new technology without it causing negative consequences. Identify the right strategic technology partner, one with the right mix of products and an emphasis on cutting carbon emissions, and you can achieve this. - Eric Herzog is a guest speaker at DTX 2025 and will be discussing 'The New Frontier of Enterprise Storage: Cyber Resilience & AI' on the Advanced Cyber Strategies Stage. Join him for unique insights on 3 April 2025 from 11.15-11.40am. Infinidat will be located at booth C81 at DTX 2025, taking place on 2-3 April at Manchester Central. For more from Infinidat, click here.

Vertiv launches new unified control platform

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, has announced the launch of Vertiv Unify, a unified control platform designed to simplify, standardise, and streamline data centre operations by integrating visibility, management, and reporting of critical power and thermal infrastructure while providing scalability and flexibility. As the only provider of the full suite of power train and thermal chain equipment, Vertiv now enables seamless integration and coordination across systems through Vertiv Unify. As AI-driven workloads and hyperscale data centres expand, operators face growing challenges in maintaining efficiency across power and thermal infrastructure. The Vertiv Unify consolidated management platform provides convenient monitoring, management, and control of critical digital infrastructure for enhanced system performance. This decentralised system is available to approved users from virtually any device, empowering facility and data centre managers with access to actionable insights for improved decision-making. “Data centres require an integrated approach to infrastructure management that reduces complexity and enhances performance,” says Andrew McClintock, Global Offering Manager at Vertiv. “Vertiv Unify accelerates system deployment with plug-and-play functionality, offers unlimited scalability, and provides real-time visibility into power and thermal infrastructure for more informed decision-making.” The system provides plug-and-play configurations, simplified energy usage reporting, and global and site-specific scalability. It also offers an unlimited licensing model for unlimited clients, screens, tags, connections, and devices, allowing access and information to all required stakeholders. Vertiv Unify is backed by Vertiv’s support and lifecycle services, a global organisation trained to provide end-to-end support to protect and optimise critical operations. For more from Vertiv, click here.

Data centres contributing to 3% of global carbon footprint

Recent research shows that 90% of all digital data in existence today has been produced in the last two years, largely attributed to the explosive increase in AI and IOT use. The total amount of data created, captured, copied, and consumed globally reached 149 zettabytes in 2024; and over the next five years, up to 2028, global annual data creation is projected to increase to more than 394 zettabytes. While the use of data has been a game-changer for organisations and individuals all over the world, the rapid take-up of AI and the internet has exacerbated the level of information available, and with it, a greater demand for data storage. Research from McKinsey and Company shows that if global demand for disk-based data centre capacity continues to grow at the pace it is, we could see an annual rise of between 19-22% each year to 2030. By 2030, it is thought that 13% of the world’s electricity consumption will be attributed to data centres, largely due to growing AI demand. Having more information and data at our fingertips comes with many advantages, but traditional methods of storage for this data come with environmental concerns around significant energy consumption, water usage, and carbon emissions. Morgan Stanley research shows that a boom in data centres is expected to produce around 2.5 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions globally through the end of the decade, and accelerate investments in decarbonisation efforts. Data centres worldwide consume approximately 460 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, a figure projected to more than double to 1,000 TWh by 2026, the equivalent of Japan's entire annual energy consumption. If we continue to follow this trajectory, the data storage centre industry will emit 2.5bn tons of CO2 by 2030. The carbon footprint of data centres is equally concerning. They are estimated to produce around 3% of global carbon footprint when it comes to gas emissions, the same amount as the aviation industry. There are similar concerns around the environmental challenges of HDD / Tape storage used for long-term cold data storage and archiving (accounting for 60% of all data stored today). These need to be kept at low temperatures using extensive amounts of energy to preserve the data. The physical tapes also require regular monitoring for degradation and must be copied every 7-10 years, costing vast energy and CO2 expense - not to mention the higher possibility of damage to the data. E-waste is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing waste streams, with an estimated 53.6 million metric tons generated globally projected to reach 74 million metric tons by 2030. Data storage devices, including HDDs, optical disks, and tape drives are difficult to recycle due to their complex composition and use of synthetic materials, further contributing to the growing e-waste crisis. Longer-lasting storage solutions, including technologies such as 5D optical storage, reduce the need for frequent replacements, dramatically lowering e-waste and energy consumption. To store 2ZB of data would require over 60 Million LTO9 tape cartridges weighing 225g, which generate 13,500 metric tons of waste when they reach end of life. Commenting on the impact of this, Peter Kazansky, Chief Science Officer at SPhotonix, says, “In an increasingly digital world, the environmental impact of data storage is quickly becoming a pressing concern with respective Governments and Regulatory bodies stepping in to enforce sustainability standards. The European Energy Efficiency Directive, for example, includes provisions specifically targeting this, and countries like Germany will require new data centres to achieve a power usage efficiency of 1.2 or less from 2026.” Revolutionising the future of data storage Scientists at SPhotonix have been developing a solution to this in the form of a 5D Optical Storage which will shape the future of data storage. The 5D Memory Crystal utilises FemtoEtch, nano etching technology and can store up to 360TB data on a five-inch glass platter. Delivering virtually unlimited data storage longevity with low environmental impact means SPhotonix technology meets future storage demands without compromising the planet. Peter continues, “Ground-breaking advancements and discoveries in technology have transformed the way we access and interpret data. The 5D memory crystal offers limitless potential, and SPhotonix is eager to explore various industries for innovative applications of its technology. With ever-increasing compliance requirements and the need for some industries to keep data for over 30 years, organisations are having to look at the most eco-friendly way of doing this. Reliable data management plays a vital role in addressing energy challenges, enabling efficient resource allocation and long-term planning. “Enhanced regulations, along with technological innovations and community engagement, are crucial steps toward reducing the environmental impact of global data storage. Through concerted efforts encompassing technological advancements, regulatory measures, and sustainable practices, the data storage industry can move toward a more environmentally friendly future.” SPhotonix was founded upon over three decades of Prof. Kazansky’s research at the University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre that recently stored the human genome on a 5D memory crystal that can reportedly last billions of years. The revolutionary technology developed for that purpose is now being applied to create these ground-breaking optical elements.

Embracing the brave new world of AI data centres

By Louis McGarry, Sales and Marketing Director, Centiel AI is creating a huge demand for power within data centres. At Centiel, we are increasingly seeing ‘normal’ enquires for sites for 20,40, 50 MW systems. But are we ready to embrace the brave new world that AI offers? Essentially, it comes down to how well a UPS is built, and how quickly and how scalable it can become. For Centiel, quality components which are more reliable and last longer are a given. The true modular nature of Centiel's systems offers the highest levels of efficiency, but they are also flexible. Like Lego blocks, adding modules means we are not limited by size and can build a system that suits today’s load and is ready for increased demands. And AI is creating massive demand and fast. The challenge is around speed of deployment and how to continue to maintain and deliver the highest levels of quality. This is second nature to Centiel. The company's Swiss factory is renowned for quality and ships around 100,000 UPS modules per month, so Centiel has already adapted its manufacturing process to deliver. If a data centre needs a super-sized UPS system in three to four months, Centiel has the ability to meet that demand. However, Centiel takes this to the next level by also working with its data centre customers to help them integrate and manage energy better. StratusPower, Centiel's fourth generation multi-award winning true modular UPS, is key. It provides market-leading (99.99999999%) availability equating to milliseconds of downtime per year and yet it is also highly efficient and sustainable. Its modules are 95% recyclable based on mass, and Centiel sources components responsibly, yet it has the ability to scale to any size. This means data centres can have a UPS which is entirely decentralised/distributed up to 1.8MW yet with a layer of sustainability and it is also built flexibly for the increased and dynamically changing loads of AI. Crucially, in the face of power-hungry AI, StratusPower offers the potential to integrate with renewable energy sources. Energy can be taken from the mains at the same time as renewables to reduce cost. It offers the potential to discharge batteries throughout the day and recharge with renewables. A 30-year design life where capacitors only need to be replaced every 15 years instead of four to five years improves sustainability further and lowers total cost of ownership. However, it’s not just Centiel’s advanced, quality UPS technology that will help data centres face the AI future. The company's experts pride themselves in working together with customers to plan the best way forwards. Centiel provides information and calculations so they can make informed decisions on equipment selection and how best to live with the system for the next 30 years in a more efficient and sustainable way. This may be through education about how to utilise different modes to maximise efficiency, or through hibernating modules to reduce energy use, or, how to introduce peak shaving to use energy storage better. Data centres are evolving, and the AI revolution is happening now. Be brave and understand it: find out how Centiel’s UPS systems are tailored to create a solution that is not only fit for today but fit for the AI future. To read more about Centiel's StratusPower UPS, click here.