Kao Data , the specialist developer and operator of advanced , carrier neutral data centres for highperformance colocation , has announced it has taken a further step towards its net zero ambitions by becoming the UK ’ s first data centre to transition all backup generators at its Harlow campus to HVO ( hydrotreated vegetable oil ) fuel . This pioneering move , made possible by partnering with Crown Oil , means Kao Data will eliminate up to 90 % of net CO 2 from its backup generators and significantly reduce nitrogen oxide , particulate matter and carbon monoxide emissions . Today , Kao Data delivers one of the UK ’ s most sustainable colocation data centre campuses . Its existing initiatives include using 100 % renewable energy , utilising 100 % refrigerant-free indirect evaporative cooling technologies and incorporating hyperscale inspired design to deliver a market-leading PUE of < 1.2 , even at partial loads . In line with its commitments
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as a signatory of the Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact ( CNDCP ), the use of Crown Oil HVO fuel marks another significant step in the company ’ s plans to become a fully carbon neutral data centre operator by 2030 .
HVO is one of the cleanest fuels on the market and is a second-generation , advanced renewable diesel alternative . Synthesised from vegetable oils using a specialist hydro treatment process , HVO has been designed to combat the performance inadequacies of earlier biofuels . It offers improved burning efficiency , delivering the same level of resilience as traditional fossil fuels . Kao Data will replace an initial 45,000 litres of diesel and switch to a HVO provision of more than 750,000 litres when the campus is fully developed . Using HVO also offers a number of additional benefits in respect of infrastructure reliability . It eliminates microbial growth , which generates sludge that can
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contaminate fuel lines and potentially lead to engine shut down .
Furthermore , HVO requires no modification to existing infrastructure and can be used as a direct replacement for diesel . It has a storage life that is 10x that of standard diesel and offers resilient yearround performance in both low and high temperatures . It is also easier to maintain , free from aromatics , sulphur and metals , odourless and completely biodegradable .
“ HVO fuel is dramatically better for the environment compared to traditional , mineral diesels . It is 100 % renewable , biodegradable , sustainable and nontoxic ,” said Simon Lawford , Technical Sales Manager , Crown Oil . “ We ’ re proud to have worked with Kao Data to initiate a first-of-its kind project , which will be transformative for the data centre industry and help point the way forward for significant reductions in industrial greenhouse gas emissions .” ◊
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