Innovative Colocation, Workplace Recovery, Renewable Energy, and Biodiversity Initiatives Set a New Standard in Sustainable Data Solutions
PETERBOROUGH, UK. October 7th, 2024 - DSM Group, a leader in IT infrastructure and data management, is proud to announce the grand opening of its flagship Eco Data Centre in Peterborough. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to meet the growing need for sustainable data storage and IT services, with a core focus on reducing carbon emissions through renewable energy, cutting-edge cooling technology, and environmental stewardship.
The launch event was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Peterborough, along with Sam Carling MP, alongside industry leaders, customers, and local community members. DSM Group CEO, Mike Richardson, highlighted the significance of the project, 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."
At the heart of the DSM Eco Data Centre is a forward-thinking approach to energy efficiency. A 200kW solar farm has been installed on the site, significantly reducing the facility’s reliance on traditional energy sources and generating renewable power to run its day-to-day operations. This solar farm underpins the facility’s ambition to lead by example in reducing the carbon footprint associated with IT infrastructure.
To further reduce energy consumption, DSM has integrated U-Systems water-cooled racks into its infrastructure. These cutting-edge racks provide efficient heat management by utilising water-based cooling, which consumes far less energy than traditional air-cooling systems. This technology is crucial to maintaining operational excellence while keeping environmental impact at a minimum.
The DSM Eco Data Centre is tailored to meet the needs of modern businesses by providing colocation services that offer secure, flexible, and scalable data hosting options. With continuous 24/7 monitoring, advanced security measures, and resilient infrastructure, the centre guarantees 99.999% uptime for mission-critical operations.
In addition to colocation, the Eco Data Centre includes 500+ fully equipped workplace recovery positions. These positions span four dedicated suites, providing a backup operational environment for businesses in the event of an emergency or disruption. The facility also offers an 18-seat executive boardroom and a 50-seat conferencing suite, making it an ideal location for corporate clients who require high-end facilities for recovery and strategic planning.
DSM’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond technology. The Eco Data Centre is located on a site that is also being developed into an onsite nature reserve, designed to protect and enhance local biodiversity. The reserve features a large lake, which serves a dual purpose. Not only does it provide a natural habitat for wildlife, but it also plays an essential role in the centre’s water management and cooling systems, helping to maintain optimal conditions for the water-cooled racks.
The lake also formed the centrepiece of the day’s charity lake dip, an event organised to raise money for two local charities: Little Miracles and Bliss. DSM Group has been actively involved in the fundraising campaign, contributing an additional £500 to help reach their £1,000 target.
The DSM Eco Data Centre is strategically located in Peterborough, less than 50 minutes by train from London and conveniently accessible via major trunk roads, including the A1M, A605, and A47. This prime location ensures that the facility can efficiently serve businesses across the UK, offering them a high-performance, eco-friendly data solution.
Looking ahead, DSM has plans for a second phase of expansion, which will further scale the Eco Data Centre’s capacity and capabilities. This phase will continue to focus on sustainability, reinforcing DSM’s leadership in green IT infrastructure.
The launch of the DSM Eco Data Centre represents a new era for both the company and the broader IT industry. CEO Mike Richardson summed up the importance of the project: "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."