The challenge
Data centres are the backbone of the digital world, ensuring that data is stored, managed, and accessible 24/7. That’s why having an uninterrupted power supply is critically important. Power outages can lead to significant data loss and service disruptions, which can be costly and damaging to an organisation’s reputation.
Our client is a leading data centre enterprise. Their recently completed data centre in Slough, UK, is one of their key facilities. So they needed a robust solution that guaranteed operational continuity and reliability. The data centre industry is rapidly expanding and highly competitive, so they also needed a solution that was highly efficient, scalable and sustainable.
Most of all, they needed a solution that could be implemented swiftly and efficiently, minimizing disruption to their ongoing operations. They required a partner with the end-to-end expertise and data centre experience to deliver a dependable but highly agile power solution fast and with the minimum of fuss. The challenge was highly technical but also logistical, requiring careful coordination and execution.
“The stakes were high. Our solution needed to ensure uninterrupted power supply under all conditions. Solving the technical issues meant overcoming a number of practical challenges and coordinating multiple aspects of the project.”
Dimi Dimitrov, AVK’s Senior Project Manager, AVK.
The solution
AVK proposed a comprehensive and innovative solution to fundamentally transform the data centre’s power infrastructure, centred around the installation of 19 state-of-the-art generators. This included two medium-sized support generators to act as additional backups, creating a robust system capable of ensuring continuous power supply even during outages.
The generators are built to run efficiently for long periods and are optimised to meet strict environmental standards. They run on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), an innovative biofuel that offers a 90% reduction in carbon emissions compared to conventional diesel. This innovative approach not only ensures uninterrupted power supply but also aligns with the client’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The project
This project required careful coordination and precise execution across several phases. Every aspect of the installation was planned, designed, managed and delivered end-to-end by AVK’s expert teams.
Detailed site survey
Understanding the specific requirements and challenges of the site enabled us to seek out opportunities to add value and cut the timeline.
Planning & design
We designed a customized solution combining the generator installation with a bespoke advanced HVO fuel system, a Central Emission Monitoring (CEM) system and a temporary loadbank to be used in the testing phase of the project.
Installation
Setting up the generators, connecting the fuel management systems and integrating the new power solution with the existing infrastructure on a tight timeline was a challenging task. Our teams worked closely with other contractors on site, ensuring seamless coordination.
Testing & commissioning
Rigorous testing and commissioning processes were critical to ensure that the new system would perform reliably under real-world conditions. The temporary loadbank allowed us to simulate various electrical loads, allowing for precise testing of the generators. The HVO fuel system was also tested to ensure it operated smoothly and efficiently.
“Collaboration was key. We started installing components in parallel with the construction process. This proactive approach saved significant time, pushing the project about two months ahead of schedule.”
Dimi Dimitrov, AVK’s Senior Project Manager, AVK.
The key takeaways
Reliability is crucial for data centres, allowing them to maintain data security and meet service level agreements. But, with the right partner, it doesn’t have to come at the cost of other critical concerns like efficiency, sustainability and speed to market.
Reliability
Our innovative solution delivered the uninterrupted supply and operational confidence our client needed, on time and to budget. But our expertise and insight delivered added value at every stage.
Sustainability
The use of HVO has significantly reduced the data centre’s carbon footprint. Meanwhile, advanced fuel management systems ensure that the generators run smoothly, enhancing efficiency and safety, optimising fuel usage, reducing the risk of spills and leaks, reducing maintenance needs and, ultimately, prolonging generator lifespan.
Scalability
The scalable solution is designed to reduce operational costs and environmental impact today, while supporting future growth. As the data centre’s needs evolve, the power infrastructure can be expanded or modified without significant overhauls.
Partnership
We bring a proactive and collaborative problem-solving approach to every project. So we maintained close communication with the client, ensuring that they were informed and involved at every stage. This approach was key to the project’s success, allowing for the quick resolution of any issues and adjustments as needed. The client was delighted by the results we delivered, and the way we worked together, laying a strong foundation for on-going support services and future projects.
