Ben Selier | Vice President | Secure Power | Anglophone Africa | Schneider Electric | mail me |
The expansion of the current data centre landscape is certainly making history. Its growth is almost reminiscent of time-lapse photography. In this scenario, we – the subjects – stand still while the data centre builds move around us at remarkable speed.
Statistics support this observation. Database Trends and Applications cites that the global data centre market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.30% from 2024 to 2032. “This growth is driven by increasing demand for data storage and processing”, says the news and analyst group. This surge is particularly due to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC).
This brings us to prefabricated modular data centres and their feasibility in a fast-tracked marketplace. Firstly, the perception of modular data centres has changed. Gone are the days when they were synonymous with basic containerised setups.
Driving efficiency through modular data centre innovation
We have now entered a new era of modularity. It offers unprecedented scalability, flexibility and efficiency. Importantly, modular data centres not only speed up the construction process but also promote sustainable building practices. This is because they can be custom-built and scaled based on demand, reducing waste and optimising resources.
HPC systems generate immense heat. This makes advanced cooling solutions essential. Modular data centres have adopted innovations like liquid cooling and free-air cooling. These technologies enhance energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact.
Moreover, HPC environments come with high power requirements. Modular power units (PUs), such as pre-integrated uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and medium voltage (MV) panels housed in containers, can now be deployed and scaled incrementally.
The modular approach also resolves space and design constraints. Rack sizes are increasing to support higher power densities, reaching up to 30 kW per rack. Consequently, modular buildings provide the flexibility needed to design layouts that are both spacious and efficient.
Acceleration of digital infrastructure
In the past, modular data centres were often compact, containerised solutions designed for quick deployment. However, they sometimes lacked scalability. As noted earlier, the growing demand for HPC with its high-density workloads has led to more sophisticated and adaptable designs.
Modular data centres now allow organisations to respond dynamically to their evolving needs. For instance, when additional power or cooling is required, teams can add dedicated modules without overhauling the entire infrastructure.
In South Africa and the SADC region, the modular approach has taken an innovative turn. Businesses are repurposing old buildings, such as warehouses, factories, or even mines – into secure, modular environments. This transformation helps reduce both construction time and cost.
Similarly, Scandinavia offers excellent examples of this trend. In Norway, for example, the Lefdal Mine Datacentre has transformed an abandoned mine into a data centre. Located on Norway’s northwest coast, it provides 1.3 million square feet of space spread over six levels. It uses fjord water for cooling and runs on hydroelectric and wind energy. These features make it one of the largest green data centres in Europe.
Modular data centre innovation in emerging markets
Companies now offer tailored solutions that match specific client requirements. These range from Tier 1 to Tier 4 redundancy and beyond. With manufacturing hubs in the Middle East, Africa and Europe, they can locally assemble and deploy modular units. This localised approach ensures faster delivery and reduces costs.
Additionally, the modular approach meets the growing demand for infrastructure flexibility. Clients can select systems that match their exact needs.
Whether they require a Tier 2 module for a small enterprise or a high-capacity solution for hyperscalers, they have options. This adaptability ensures that modular data centres remain future-proof. They are ready to keep pace with the rapid evolution of the data centre landscape.
