Data Centre and Power News: May 2023
Data centres and power generation play crucial roles in modern infrastructure, but they also face significant sustainability challenges. As a provider of noise control solutions to these industries, Wiltech Acoustics understands these issues first-hand and we like to keep an eye on the latest developments. In that spirit, here are five news stories that caught our attention in May.
Data Centre boom shows no signs of slowing
In its latest report, Research And Markets predict that by 2028, the data centre sector in Western Europe will be worth around $10.61 billion by 2028 (up from $8.22 billion in 2022), with Germany leading the way. The growing demand for services like cloud computing, data storage, and digital transformation is driving this growth, and, as the forecast points out, efficient infrastructure and environmentally friendly practices are increasingly important considerations for those involved in data centre construction.
Double vision: how digital twins are reshaping data centres
Digital twins — in other words, virtual replicas of physical assets — have a key role to play in the data centre sector. Earlier this month, Data Centre Magazine highlighted 10 digital twin technologies, ranging from advanced monitoring tools to simulation software and artificial intelligence applications. These cutting-edge solutions are expected to drive operational optimisation, efficiency gains, and informed decision-making within data centres. We can expect benefits such as improved reliability, reduced downtime, and enhanced overall performance as these innovative digital twin technologies reshape the landscape of data centres.
From turmoil to transformation
The invasion of Ukraine has inadvertently sparked a funding boom for clean energy, according to The Guardian. The heightened geopolitical tensions have led investors to divert funds away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy projects. This shift in investment has accelerated the clean energy sector’s growth, offering a silver lining amidst the turmoil. All of this just goes to show how geopolitical events can unexpectedly influence financial flows — in this case contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy initiatives.
How wind turbines defy the elements
Ever wondered how we prevent gigantic wind turbines, as tall as skyscrapers, from drifting away at sea? Earlier this month, an in-depth article in The Conversation examined the challenges involved in securing floating wind turbines. These turbines, harnessing wind energy over the open ocean, require innovative mooring systems to keep them in place amidst powerful waves and currents. The article explores different techniques, such as dynamic positioning and tension-leg platforms, which ensure the stability and safety of these colossal structures.
Action needed to achieve a net zero UK grid
A report published by Regen and MCS Charitable Foundation has highlighted the feasibility of achieving a net zero electricity grid in the UK, although there’s an urgent need for increased action and investment to make this vision a reality. While the current grid has successfully connected wind farms, solar farms, and batteries, there is a significant backlog of low-carbon projects waiting for grid connection agreements. Extended lead times for these projects pose a challenge. Investing in a modernised grid that maximises British renewables could accelerate the transition from costly gas, lower household bills, and reduce reliance on imported gas.
Wiltech Acoustics engineer, manufacture and install high-quality noise control solutions for Industrial and Power applications. Contact us to find out more about how we can help your business.