Achieving a Green Data Centre: More than a Good Design Is Needed

The concept of a Green Data Centre is difficult to perceive with a building full of computers consuming electricity. So, the goal for a green data centre is to minimize the energy consumed by the facility that does not go into computing power. To achieve this reduction the site selection, facility program, design, installation, commissioning and operations all play a vital role. I will discuss some current trends and design strategies for high performance in various climates. Also, I will present some keys to achieving the goals of a high-performance design with commissioning, seasonal testing, operation plans for changing IT loads, EBCx as operations change, Cx of added equipment during the life of the data centre and most importantly - annual monitoring and operational adjustments. These concepts, success stories and some common pitfalls will be presented as we predict the future of green data centres.

Speakers:

Jim Vallort

Jim Vallort is a Quality and Commissioning Senior Director with Vantage Data Centers. Jim also served as an ASHRAE Society Vice President for the 2014-2016 director-at-large in 2005-08 and as Region VI director and Regional Chair in 2001-04. He currently serves as a member of Guideline 1.6 Data Center Commissioning, and (TC) 7.9, Building Commissioning.

Jim previously was the Illinois Chapter president in 1999-2000 and is an ASHRAE Fellow.

He brings a unique perspective on the constructability and real-world aspects of our industry having been a union pipefitter, spent years in the field commissioning projects, combined with the experience as a mechanical designer, building automation designer, energy modeler and general contractor.

Jim’s greatest joy at work is teaching and mentoring others on the mix of art and science that is required to solve today’s challenges. This passion guided Jim in developing the YEA committee within ASHRAE – when he qualified to be a YEA member many years ago

Jim Vallort