Equinix and National University of Singapore Collaborate on Sustainable Energy Solutions for Data Centres

2 minutes read

Equinix and National University of Singapore Collaborate on Sustainable Energy Solutions for Data Centres - AppliedHE

Equinix, a prominent entity in digital infrastructure, has partnered with the National University of Singapore (NUS) to establish a Co-Innovation Facility (CIF) dedicated to promoting sustainability and energy solutions for data centers. This initiative will be situated within Equinix’s forthcoming SG6 International Business Exchange data center in Singapore, concentrating on the development of innovative technologies across several domains, including low-carbon energy, high-efficiency cooling, and energy optimization for data centers.

Goals of the Co-Innovation Facility

The CIF aims to expedite the testing and development of sustainable solutions designed to mitigate the environmental impact of data centers, particularly in tropical climates. Recent data indicates that Singapore’s digital economy has seen substantial growth, which has made a notable contribution to the nation’s GDP. This growth underscores the urgency for sustainable practices within the energy-intensive data center sector, especially as the demand for digital infrastructure continues to escalate.

Investment and Innovative Technologies

With an initial investment of approximately USD 4 million, the CIF will facilitate the integration of clean and renewable energy sources alongside alternative power generation technologies. The innovations projected to arise from this partnership include the implementation of AI and machine learning, as well as advanced cooling techniques like liquid cooling, which aim to improve energy efficiency while minimizing noise and optimizing space.

Statements from Leaders

Statements from leading officials encapsulate the goals of the collaboration. Yee May Leong, Managing Director of Equinix Singapore, highlighted the critical need to address climate change within operational frameworks and underscored the importance of expanding innovative initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region. Professor Lee Poh Seng from NUS emphasized the objective of translating research findings into practical applications that redefine operational efficiency in alignment with Singapore’s sustainability goals.

Timeline and Research Collaboration

The CIF is anticipated to officially open in the first quarter of 2027, serving as a collaborative research hub for technology innovators, industry partners, and academics to explore and trial new technologies that address the evolving demands of the sector.

Key Aspects of the Collaboration

Key aspects of the collaboration include:

The exploration of alternative power solutions, including fuel cells and battery storage for low-carbon energy applications in data centers.
The implementation of a direct current power distribution system aimed at enhancing electrical efficiency.
The utilization of digital twin technology for predictive maintenance capabilities.
Ongoing support for Singapore’s sustainability initiatives, which include scholarship opportunities focused on nature-based climate solutions.