Last Updated on: 7th October 2024, 09:46 am
Sustainability Meets Innovation with Renewable Energy, Workplace Recovery, Colocation, and Biodiversity Solutions
DSM Group, a leader in IT infrastructure and data management, has officially launched its cutting-edge Eco Data Centre in Peterborough. Designed to address the increasing demand for sustainable IT and data storage solutions, the facility prioritises carbon reduction through renewable energy, innovative cooling systems, and environmental stewardship.
The launch event welcomed the Mayor and Mayoress of Peterborough, alongside Sam Carling MP, industry professionals, customers, and members of the local community. DSM Group’s CEO, Mike Richardson, reflected on the project’s significance, stating: “Our Eco Data Centre marks a pivotal moment for DSM and the wider IT industry. We are setting a new benchmark for sustainability in data services, blending high-performance technology with a strong commitment to protecting the environment.”
A significant feature of the DSM Eco Data Centre is its focus on energy efficiency. A 200kW solar farm has been installed to reduce the facility’s dependency on conventional power sources, providing renewable energy to operate its daily functions. This solar installation underpins the centre’s mission to lead by example in reducing the carbon footprint of IT infrastructure.
To further optimise energy use, DSM has introduced U-Systems water-cooled racks, which provide advanced heat management. This water-based cooling technology consumes significantly less energy than traditional air-cooling systems and is essential in delivering high-performance results while minimising the environmental impact.
The DSM Eco Data Centre caters to modern business demands by offering secure, flexible, and scalable colocation services. Equipped with 24/7 monitoring, advanced security systems, and robust infrastructure, the centre guarantees 99.999% uptime, ensuring uninterrupted operations for businesses.
The centre also features more than 500 fully furnished workplace recovery positions, arranged across four dedicated suites, allowing companies to maintain continuity in times of emergency or disruption. Additionally, there is an 18-seat executive boardroom and a 50-seat conference room, providing corporate clients with premium recovery and strategic planning facilities.
DSM’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond its technological offerings. The Eco Data Centre is located on a site being developed into a nature reserve to support and protect local wildlife. The reserve, which includes a large lake, serves a dual purpose by providing a natural habitat and playing a crucial role in the facility’s water management and cooling processes.
During the launch event, the lake was used as part of a charity lake dip, organised to raise funds for two local charities, Little Miracles and Bliss. DSM Group contributed an extra £500 towards the fundraising goal of £1,000.
Located strategically in Peterborough, the DSM Eco Data Centre is less than 50 minutes from London by train and benefits from excellent road links, including the A1M, A605, and A47. This convenient location ensures businesses throughout the UK can access a sustainable, high-performance data solution.
Looking ahead, DSM Group has plans to expand the Eco Data Centre in a second phase, which will further enhance its capacity and continue its focus on eco-friendly IT solutions. This will solidify DSM’s position as a leader in green IT infrastructure.
The launch of the DSM Eco Data Centre marks a significant development for both DSM and the broader IT industry. As Mike Richardson, CEO, summarised: “This facility isn’t just a technological achievement, it’s a testament to the future of sustainable business. We’re building a legacy of environmental stewardship that’s designed to benefit both our clients and the planet.”