Sustainability at DCA: Energy Efficiency
As demand for data continues to increase, the sustainability of data centres has become a critical concern. The push for a smaller carbon footprint is driving significant changes across the industry.
While large players and hyperscalers may adopt costly, high-visibility green initiatives, at DCA, we focus on achieving environmental efficiency alongside cost optimisation. Since DCA | PIER was established in 2016, sustainability has been a core part of our design philosophy. This article is the first in a series exploring the sustainable practices and technologies at DCA | PIER. Here, we discuss how we maximise energy efficiency through design and technology.
Automated Intelligent Equipment Management
DCA employs a customised Data Centre Infrastructure Management (DCIM) system, which continuously monitors performance and efficiency via programmable logic controllers (PLCs). For instance, our chiller plant is automatically duty-cycled to balance machinery wear and tear. The system also captures extensive data, enabling us to analyse operational efficiency, including load profiles at the POD level and corresponding Cooling Room Air Handling Units (CRAHs) performance.
Harnessing the Weather
PIER’s chillers utilise ‘free cooling,’ taking advantage of external ambient temperatures when conditions allow. This adiabatic mode is particularly effective during summer, where the evaporative nature of water enhances cooling economically. By monitoring external temperatures, our system can switch to a mode that uses only external cooler air to chill the water loop, significantly reducing power consumption.
Collaborative Cooling with CRAHs
The CRAHs in our Performance Optimised Data Centre (POD) operate on a variable speed concept and work together in ‘team mode’ to maintain a stable cooling environment. This teamwork reduces excessive individual operation, conserving energy and minimising wear and tear.
Designing for Insulation
DCA | PIER is built around a Zero Heat Transfer concept, crucial in Western Australia’s hot climate. Our data halls feature high-efficiency thermal insulation to minimise heat transfer and cooling loss, enhancing cooling efficiency and reducing power consumption.
Bright Designs for Reduced Lighting Needs
Data centres are often poorly lit, so we designed DCA | PIER with bright surfaces to reduce lighting requirements. Our server racks, POD, and containments are painted white, leading to a 22% reduction in electricity use. Additionally, all lighting at DCA | PIER, including office, white space, external, and warehouse lighting, is high-efficiency LED. We also operate in low lighting or Dark Mode after hours to conserve energy.
Stay tuned for the next articles in this series, where we’ll delve into our environmental friendliness initiatives and our unique colocation power use strategy.