Data centres and the challenge to power the digital age

The digital revolution is driving an unprecedented demand for data centres, which continue to play a vital role in our connected world. From streaming services and e-commerce platforms to cloud computing and artificial intelligence, almost every industry relies on the efficient and uninterrupted operation of these critical facilities, but none of this can work without specialised electrical systems, writes Phil Wiltshire, operations director for Pensdown, the electrical people.

Data centres are the physical hubs where computing, networking and storage resources converge to manage and distribute digital information. They house critical hardware, including servers, storage devices and network equipment in a highly controlled environment.

With global data usage projected to reach over 200 zettabytes by 2025, the need for resilient, scalable and efficient data centre infrastructure has never been more important. However, this growing reliance on data centres brings unique challenges to electrical installations, making expertise in this domain a necessity.

In a world where a few minutes of downtime can cost millions, electrical systems must guarantee uninterrupted power, even during outages or equipment failures. This is all about designing redundancy into electrical systems, which involves deploying multiple layers of backup power, such as uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), which provide immediate, short-term power during outages.

These might include diesel or natural gas generators, which can be used to provide sustained power during extended power failures. An additional back up would extend to separate power supply lines to ensure that if one fails, the other can take over seamlessly.

Because data demands are growing exponentially, data centres must also be designed to accommodate future expansions without disruptive overhauls. This means that electrical systems must support phased expansions to include scalable units that grow with increasing power demands. Flexible power distribution units (PDUs) also enable load balancing and easy reconfiguration as equipment is added ensuring that floor space and power supply can handle increased server densities.

Energy-efficient cooling solutions

We must also be aware that servers generate massive amounts of heat, and cooling systems are vital in maintaining optimal operating conditions. However, traditional cooling methods consume significant energy, driving up operational costs and carbon footprints.

Achieving energy efficiency in cooling can, however, be achieved through a range of innovative approaches. These would include liquid cooling systems which directly reduce heat in server components with fluids for better thermal management. Separating hot and cold airflows to maximise cooling efficiency is another method, particularly when combined with solar, wind or geothermal energy to power cooling systems.

We must also be aware that data centres are among the largest consumers of electricity, with some facilities requiring as much power as a small city. Ensuring a reliable, scalable and efficient power supply is critical to meeting these demands. This frequently involves the use of high-voltage distribution systems to manage large-scale power delivery efficiently. We can also use smart energy management systems which optimise energy use by monitoring consumption and dynamically adjusting loads.

All this means that data centres must meet rigorous safety, operational and cybersecurity standards to protect both infrastructure and data integrity. In turn, electrical contractors like us must ensure compliance by adhering to industry-specific guidelines. Pensdown ensures that all such installations not only meet but often exceed compliance standards. This attention to detail reduces risks and enhances the overall reliability of data centre operations.

Complying to such standards is critical particularly as the evolution of technology is driving new trends in data centre electrical design. They increasingly rely on solar and wind power to reduce carbon emissions. There is also a trend towards smaller, localised data centres which bring computing closer to users and requires a more compact and efficient electrical design.

We can also see advanced algorithms which are optimising energy use and system performance together with microgrids which provide on-site energy generation and improved storage systems, which enhance reliability and sustainability.

In short, this means that the electrical systems powering data centres are integral to their success, addressing challenges like redundancy, scalability and energy efficiency. As data demands grow, so too does the need for innovative and reliable electrical solutions.

Pensdown’s expertise in commercial electrical installations ensures that data centres not only meet today’s needs but are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. By prioritising precision, innovation and sustainability, we continue to help our clients stay ahead in the ever-evolving digital age.