FEATURE : DATA CENTRES
resources , advances in engineering are meeting the challenge of efficient and responsible water use .
Modular data centres and free cooling or water from natural sources , offers another energyefficient choice . Both technologies not only lower operating costs but also contribute to the overall sustainability of data centre operations .
Modular data centres are another key strategy in addressing infrastructure challenges . These designs involve prefabricated units that can be quickly deployed and scaled according to demand . The modular approach offers several advantages , including reduced construction times , lower costs , and the ability to adapt to changing requirements .
As the data centre industry continues to grow , the adoption of sustainable strategies is essential to overcoming infrastructure challenges and ensuring long-term viability . By deploying renewable energy , modular designs , and advanced cooling technologies , data centres can meet the rising demand for digital services while minimising their environmental impact .
A DATA CENTRE THAT IS BUILT AROUND THE CORE PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABILITY AND BEING LOCALLY FIT-FOR- PURPOSE IS BUT FUTURE- PROOF BY DESIGN .
Another significant shift in the data centre industry is the move towards renewable energy sources . Traditional data centres have long been associated with high energy consumption , often relying on non-renewable resources that contribute to carbon emissions . Integration of renewable energy , such as solar , wind , and hydropower , into data centre operations is helping to reduce the environmental footprint .
Africa with its abundant sunshine and wind resources , is well-positioned to capitalise on renewable energy for data centres . By investing in solar farms and wind turbines , data centres can not only ensure a reliable power supply but also contribute to the country ’ s renewable energy targets .
Data storage solutions
In South Africa , where the demand for data centres is rapidly increasing , modular designs provide a flexible solution that can be tailored to various locations and needs . For instance , in areas with limited infrastructure , modular data centres can be installed to serve immediate needs while long-term infrastructure development takes place .
Africa is in the throes of a digital revolution , with South Africa at the forefront of this transformative wave . The digital economy in Africa has been driven by explosive growth in Internet penetration and a growing technology-savvy population . According to a Gallup ’ s survey , Internet access in South Africa rose from 52 % in 2019 to 66 % in 2021 , while in Nigeria , Internet access increased from 26 % in 2019 to 36 % in 2021 .
According to Matone Ditlhake , CEO Corridor Africa , this approach not only alleviates pressure on existing resources but also supports the rapid deployment of critical digital infrastructure , he adds .
Cooling systems are a critical part of data centre operations , accounting for a sizable portion of energy consumption . As data centres expand , the need for efficient cooling solutions becomes even more pressing . Advanced cooling technologies , such as liquid cooling and free cooling , are appearing as key solutions to reduce energy usage and enhance sustainability .
Liquid cooling , which involves circulating a liquid coolant through the data centre to absorb heat , is particularly effective in reducing the energy required for cooling . Free cooling , which utilises ambient air
According to Ghassan Azzi , Sales Director for Africa , Western Digital , as this transformation continues , a crucial element is data storage , with solutions like solid-state drives , SSDs and hard disk drives , HDDs being essential for supporting digital services . These technologies enable businesses across the continent to effectively utilise data , which could drive economic growth and development .
Digital services generate vast amounts of data daily , presenting both opportunities and challenges for businesses . The ability to manage , store , and utilise this data effectively can make the difference between stagnation and growth . Businesses that use data to gain insights , improve operations , and offer personalised services can unlock new revenue streams and enhance customer satisfaction .
36 INTELLIGENTCIO AFRICA www . intelligentcio . com