Making IMPACT with sustainable data center solutions

Switch Datacenters designs, builds, and operates highly efficient data centers with minimal environmental impact. Innovative technology, partnerships, and sustainable data center solutions provide the foundation of a blueprint for future developments.

Due to a congested power grid and strict CO₂ regulations, the construction of data centers in the Netherlands—especially in the Randstad region—is under significant pressure. Switch Datacenters is looking for ways to develop data centers under these conditions while still achieving its own sustainability ambitions.

For over 10 years, Switch Datacenters and Schneider Electric have been working together to develop data centers with continuously improving designs that meet the latest requirements. The design for AMS4 meets the highest sustainability standards, by using energy efficient technologies, among other things. They selected the latest UPS system with lithium-ion batteries, and in collaboration with Cooling Partner T&S Klimaattechniek, developed a unique dry cooling system that eliminates the use of water. Combined with the latest generation of refrigerants, the cooling system has a low environmental impact. The modular design also enables a fast time-to-market and allows for scalable growth. It’s an efficient approach that works well.

The design, reuse of materials, energy-efficient solutions, and heat recovery make the data center at least 50% less carbon-insensitive. The modular design also contributed to a fast development timeline, with a time-to-market of less than 18 months. The selected solutions offer scalability, flexibility, and reliability. The energy-efficient technology significantly contributes to a PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness) of 1.19. This low PUE was a key factor in meeting regulatory requirements. Additionally, the low environmental impact of the innovative cooling technology supports the achievement of sustainability goals.