Data centre reduces power consumption by 25%
Yorkshire Water has reduced power consumption at its data centre in Bradford by 25% following an energy assessment by Keysource. Following the implementation of key recommendations, Yorkshire Water was able to optimise cooling processes and achieve energy savings of up to £70 000, based on 10 p/kWh and a measured IT load of 134 kW.
Using the Green Grids metrics for measurement, Keysource measured the power usage effectiveness (PUE) at 2.3 — meaning that only 43% of the power drawn was used to power IT equipment. Following the implementation of suggested changes, the PUE was improved to 1.7, so that 59% of the load was for IT equipment. Non-IT loads have been reduced by 46%.
Following CFD analysis of airflows in the data centre, Keysource recommended the use of blanking panels, relocation of floor grilles, the creation of hot and cold aisles to optimise airflow management and the introduction of a third cooling unit to improve efficiency.
Mike West, managing director of Keysource, says, ‘The Yorkshire Water project demonstrates that measurement followed by implementing best-practice recommendations can prove very attractive indeed when the power savings available are assessed.’
