RACA Journal November 2023 | Page 20

18
Business
Furthermore , water used in data centres can be treated and recycled for other purposes , contributing to a more sustainable approach .
“ We are continuously engaged in research and development to enhance the efficiency and performance of cooling systems . Globally , the industry is witnessing a drive towards designing units that minimise pressure drop . This is particularly important for air cooling systems , where every Pascal ( Pa ) counts . By implementing innovative designs that can reduce pressure drop by as little as 10 Pa , significant energy savings can be achieved . Furthermore , the increasing density within data centres necessitates the use of liquid cooling for highperformance computing and specific applications ,” he adds .
Systemair ’ s distinctive approach is rooted in sustainability , considering the holistic impact of their solutions . With ESD ( Enterprise and Supplier Development ) contracts in place and a strong focus on sustainable practices , the company aims to run its factories on green energy , utilising solar panels and sea water heat pumps . It similarly works closely with suppliers to reduce their carbon footprint , establishing themselves as sustainable partners . These values align with global companies ’ expectations , making the HVAC company an appealing choice for data centre operators who prioritise sustainability .
“ While price remains a significant consideration for many , the importance of sustainability is growing in the data centre industry . Operators , especially those associated with global companies , prioritise sustainability due to regulatory requirements and investor expectations in their home countries . When seeking investments for data centre construction , investment firms closely examine the ESD contracts and the impact on the environment . Therefore , any HVAC company ' s commitment to sustainability becomes a vital aspect in securing funding and partnerships ,” says Johansson .
FUTURE PROSPECTS IN AFRICA “ Africa presents promising opportunities for the data centre market , with significant growth expected across the continent . The region ' s demographics , characterised by a young and tech-savvy population , combined with the rapid adoption of mobile devices , predicate a surge in African data centre demand . Moreover , the establishment of subsea cables connecting Africa with Europe , the Middle East , and the US paves the way for increased connectivity . To leverage these opportunities , reliable power infrastructure is crucial . Africa ' s abundant solar resources offer a viable solution for powering data centres , creating a favourable environment for growth ,” he adds .
Johansson says Systemair is at the forefront of delivering efficient and sustainable cooling solutions with its focus on reducing pressure drop , adapting to liquid cooling technologies , and embracing sustainability – all of which resonate with data centre operators who prioritise environmental responsibility .
By combining technological advancements with a commitment to sustainability , the company aims to play a vital role in shaping the future of data centres in Africa . RACA

18

RACA Journal I November 2023 www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za