Leaders in driving ESG, growth and community relations IN ASSOCIATION WITH:
DIGITAL REPORT 2023
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STACK INFRASTRUCTURE
LEADERS IN DRIVING ESG, GROWTH AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS WRITTEN BY: MAYA DERRICK PRODUCED BY: LEWIS VAUGHAN
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STACK INFRASTRUCTURE
STACK’s EMEA leadership team explores its growth over the last 18 months and how it’s hyper-focused on sustainability and creating positive relationships
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elivering growth while maintaining a positive environmental and social impact is at the heart of STACK Infrastructure’s operations. As a leading global developer and operator of data centres, STACK provides digital infrastructure to scale the world’s most innovative companies. It’s acutely focused on doing so in an environmentally and socially positive way, through measures such as powering all facilities with 100% renewables, piloting innovative projects like heat reuse, and engaging relevantly with local communities. This is embodied by STACK’s EMEA Vice President of ESG, Michillay Brown. Proudly South African born and raised, she is motivated by the beauty and complexity of her homeland to drive change and make a real, positive impact. “Data centres are the foundations of the global digital landscape and building critical infrastructure with respect for our planet and its people is essential,” she says. “Sustainability strategies that deliver tangible results is something I’m incredibly passionate about.” Encouraging and inspiring the data centre workforce of the future Reducing carbon footprints, circularity principles and delivering benefits to communities is what drew Brown to the data
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From left: STACK’s Michillay Brown, John Eland, and Amy Daniell
“ OUR ESG AND DE&I PROGRAMS ARE PIVOTAL TO ENSURING WE PROVIDE A WELCOMING AND THRIVING WORK ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR PEOPLE” JOHN ELAND
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, STACK EMEA
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centre industry and especially to STACK following a career in mining. Amy Daniell, STACK’s Senior Vice President of Strategy and Development in EMEA, shares how the industry has evolved at an exponential rate over the last 15 years, and that the scale of STACK’s projects never ceases to amaze her. Amid the growth, the company’s focus on sustainability and its workforce is also moving forward at pace. “Eight to 10 years ago, a big data centre in Europe was five or six megawatts,” Daniell explains. “Now, it’s more like 50 or 60 megawatts. It’s a very different scale. The key evolution is that we are reaching a talent saturation point in our industry, and we’re having to look to other industries for new talent.”
STACK INFRASTRUCTURE
JOHN ELAND TITLE: CEO, EMEA COMPANY: STACK INFRASTRUCTURE
The STACK team at the Milan Marathon
Daniell, who studied law and worked in construction before entering the data centre space, works closely with local schools to encourage young people from all backgrounds to consider careers in data centres and STEM subjects. But Daniell doesn’t work alone to shape the workforce of the future; across EMEA, STACK runs several local education programs with a range of benefits for students, from learning about and interacting with data centres, to internships and apprenticeships. Though STACK operates in three distinct regions – Americas, EMEA and APAC – John Eland, the Chief Executive Officer of the EMEA business, explains that client focus, speed, agility and excellence in delivery unite STACK worldwide.
John Eland is the EMEA Chief Executive Officer at STACK. He joined the company in April 2022 to oversee its expansion across the EMEA region. Prior to joining STACK, John served as Chief Strategy Officer of the Global Data Centres division at NTT Ltd where he led strategy and corporate development in existing and new markets. Early in his career, John served as the CEO of Data City Exchange, a modular data centre solution innovator. From there he transitioned to the investment side of the industry, joining AXA Investment Managers in 2014 to oversee the deployment and management of AXAIM’s £1billion data centre investments programme.
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Kohler delivers power solutions to keep data centres on Lenaik Andrieux, GM EMEA & India of Power Systems at Kohler, explains why its production increase is paramount for enabling reliable energy for data centre businesses In a digital age where continuous power is non-negotiable, Kohler emerges as a beacon of reliable energy solutions for various sectors, from healthcare to the rapidly expanding data centre market. Kohler’s diverse portfolio ranges from kitchen and bath businesses to entertainment and golf. Yet, its heart lies in the power industry, offering engines, generators, switch gears, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs) globally. Lenaik Andrieux, GM EMEA & India, emphasises, “Power systems is really almost an energy insurance business. We are here to make sure that your line never goes off.” This dedication has led to a 30% production capacity increase, especially targeting the data centre sector. Beyond generators, Kohler’s switchgear segment stands out. As Andrieux explains, “Switch gears distribute energy effectively, ensuring it reaches the right spot in your process or organisation.” Kohler’s commitment goes beyond products; they deliver total power
solutions, a comprehensive approach covering design, execution, and long-term support. Sustainability is integral to Kohler. The company has slashed its carbon footprint by 60% using renewable fuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). Innovative programs like Conscious Care™ further demonstrate their eco-focus, aiming to reduce the operational maintenance activity hours of large power plants, hence the environmental impact. When questioned about challenges transitioning to HVO, Andrieux reassures, “It’s easy to substitute with the same parameters as GNR. As demand grows, supply will match.” Andrieux foresees Kohler making significant strides in the data centre realm. “We have a strong brand and take direct ownership of projects with our customers from start to finish,” he states. A cornerstone of Kohler’s success in the sustainability space is its many partnerships with companies and organizations that align with their vision. They value collaboration with other entities when it is firmly rooted in trust as well as technical expertise.
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STACK INFRASTRUCTURE
Heat reuse pipes at a STACK data centre
“ DATA CENTRES ARE THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE GLOBAL DIGITAL LANDSCAPE AND BUILDING CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE WITH RESPECT FOR OUR PLANET AND ITS PEOPLE IS ESSENTIAL” MICHILLAY BROWN
VICE PRESIDENT, ESG, STACK EMEA
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“We want to ensure that STACK resonates with people, both inside and outside the industry, for the right reasons,” Eland shares. “Our ESG and DE&I programs are pivotal to ensuring that we not only strive to deliver excellence in data centre development and operations, but we also provide a welcoming and thriving work environment for our people along with developing strong connections with the communities in which we operate.” Giving back to communities STACK serves What STACK is cognisant of, Brown highlights, is that operating around EMEA presents its own challenges when it comes
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STACK campus beehives stackinfra.com
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© 2023 Vertiv Group Corp. All rights reserved. Vertiv™ and the Vertiv logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vertiv Group Corp. All other names and logos referred to are trade names, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Strategic Data Centre Design: Tailoring Solutions to Unique Requirements In today’s digital era, data centres are the backbone of our interconnected world, supporting the digital infrastructure that drives our daily lives. However, as data generation continues to grow exponentially and the demand for processing power escalates, data centres face the challenge of managing both cooling continuity and energy consumption. These challenges often necessitate bespoke solutions that are designed and engineered to address specific requirements. In the realm of data centre solutions, Vertiv stands out in delivering not just an array of best-in-class products but also a holistic and tailored approach to meet the unique needs of each project. We take a thorough approach to understand the intricacies of the project, ensuring that the solution is precisely aligned with specific requirements and shedding light on the distinct advantages of choosing Vertiv over other alternatives. Highly configurable solutions like the Vertiv™ Liebert® AFC inverter screw freecooling chiller with low-GWP (global warming potential) are engineered with durable components and advanced technologies delivering reliable performance even under rigorous usage and harsh operating conditions. The free cooling mode significantly improves seasonal efficiency and reduces operating costs, while the use of low-GWP refrigerant aligns with environmental regulations and carbon reduction goals. To further continuity of cooling capacity, regardless of external ambient conditions, the Vertiv™ Liebert® AHU air handling unit is a bespoke high-capacity solution that can be installed both indoor and outdoor for greater flexibility. Added value results from meticulous attention to detail and the selection of highly reliable
components managed with control logics. Moreover, the Vertiv™ Liebert® iCOM™ monitoring and control logic is strategically at the heart of such tailor-made cooling systems as it not only enhances efficiency but also provides the necessary redundancy for cooling continuity, even during power outages. A key advantage offered by Vertiv is the opportunity to undergo witness tests, benefiting from comprehensive consultations with engineering and application specialists. Vertiv’s Thermal Management Customer Experience Centre includes seven innovation labs on one site, where customers can witness and verify the quality, functionality, and performance of their tailor-made solution. The holistic approach ensures that the entire bespoke solution, not just individual units, meets the agreed requirements and expectations. To complement its cutting-edge solutions, Vertiv offers a comprehensive suite of services which are essential to enhance efficiency and performance. By providing key insights on how the equipment is being used, Vertiv services can help improve uptime and reliability, lower operating costs, increase energy efficiency, and ultimately reduce the data centre’s environmental impact.
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Chilled Water Thermal Wall Unit
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The Inverter Screw Chiller Large capacity up to 2200kW
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STACK INFRASTRUCTURE
John Eland, EMEA CEO at STACK, on 18 Months of Growth, Sustainability, and Positive Relationships WATCH NOW
to ESG and delivery, with local laws, boundaries and obligations varying from location to location. STACK’s approach to ESG is global at its core, but flexible so that when implemented at a local level it serves the needs of communities. “We unlock so much value when our global regions are collaborating and sharing best practices with different yet regionally relevant initiatives,” Brown explains. STACK has implemented a number of progressive ESG initiatives on a local level, such as heat reuse solutions and rainwater harvesting. One of its most pioneering projects is in Oslo, Norway, where heat 14
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from STACK’s data centre is reused to warm up to 5,000 city homes. Brown adds: “STACK is also factoring in local biodiversity as part of our basis of design. This means looking to incorporate low-maintenance green facades which cover the building with native species of vegetation. It’s very attractive for the aesthetics of an industrial area and attracts wildlife as well. Conservation efforts with campus beehives is another initiative we’re particularly proud of.” In 2024, STACK will launch its new global ESG framework and commitments, bringing a holistic approach to ESG across all areas of STACK worldwide.
Heat from STACK’s Oslo data centre is reused to warm up to 5,000 city homes. Native plants are incorporated into the design of the facade STACK operates in
United through solving complicated problems with people of different backgrounds Eland is a firm believer that STACK’s success and continued growth EMEAwide is well supported by its strong dynamic culture and diverse workforce, with more than 30 nationalities represented in this region of STACK alone. “STACK is present in 23 markets and counting,”
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markets across EMEA, APAC, and the Americas Globally, STACK boasts
2.5+GW
of built and under development capacity and
4.0+GW
of planned and potential development More than
30
nationalities are represented in STACK’s EMEA workforce
he says. “And of course there are logistical considerations that come with adding new markets, new regulations and new members of the workforce. We’ve been driving harmonisation while remaining highly focused on growth and maintaining that strong growth trajectory,” he adds. “Over the last 18 months we’ve been focused on integrating three legacy regional businesses and have successfully brought it all stackinfra.com
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The clock is ticking in the race for net zero infrastructure. European data center operators are embarking on a quest to power the path to a sustainable digital future, but only through collaboration, digitalization and electrification can the vision become a reality.
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oday we are at an inflection point. In recent times, businesses and consumers have lived through one of the worst energy crises in living memory, while the fundamental challenge of our generation, climate change, is being compounded by energy issues. It’s estimated that 80% of the world’s emissions come from the production, generation, and transmission of energy. If businesses can begin to reduce or eliminate energy waste, humankind can begin to benefit on a global scale, and make significant steps forward in the mission to combat global warming. Looking back to the energy crisis, the reality away from media headlines is fundamentally, different. Indeed, there were no blackouts, no outages, and today the cost of energy is gradually coming down. However, the fallout remains high, with energyintensive industries such as petrochemicals being mothballed, data center operating costs peaking throughout the winter, and Europe becoming less attractive for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with greenfield investment projects falling an estimated 15% to-date. The good news, however, is that while 12 months ago 70% of the European Unions (EU) energy came from fossil fuels, the continents’ renewable energy production capabilities have accelerated at a dramatic rate, with almost 40% of all energy now being generated from renewables. What’s clear is that to drive the green transition forward we must continue to prioritise investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable digital transformation – all of which will be vital to address global warming and solve the challenges presented by the energy crisis.
For businesses and consumers alike, energy security and sustainability are two sides of the same coin and it’s estimated that 60% of all energy produced is lost or wasted. The challenge, therefore, is to find new ways to minimize waste across all critical industries by investing in highly resilient and energy efficient technologies, many of which exist already today. As the winter fast-approaches, this becomes even more important for data center operators, where geopolitical issues and grid constrains will have an immediate impact on costs, power supplies and increase the risk of downtime. The reality is that the pace of digitization over the last few years has truly been transformative, and the data center industry, which is the backbone of the digital economy, is becoming increasingly accountable. By 2025, the electrical footprint of data centers is expected to increase by 50%, and we anticipate a 500% growth in data globally. Clearly our digitized world requires an exceptional amount of processing and storage, causing exponential demand for data centers and IT infrastructures. Ultimately, this growth means energy efficiency and sustainability are paramount to the future of the sector, and as the world becomes more dependent on digital infrastructure, we must encourage the responsible consumption and production of data - ensuring we embed a culture of sustainability in our data center designs, buildouts and operations. To unlock the new efficiencies and improvements will require new insights hailed from the creation of data. Therefore, the data center sector itself can act as a catalyst for sustainable change, empowering the world to do more, with less, while reducing the amount of energy and resources wasted, and minimizing carbon emissions.
Powering the Path to a Sustainable, Digital Future
MARC GARNER
SVP SECURE POWER EUROPE, SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC
At Schneider Electric, we believe the convergence of digitalization and electrification, something we call Electricity 4.0, presents us with the fastest path to net zero, and a world which is more sustainable and more resilient. This is inherently important for the data center sector. Electricity, for example, makes energy green and is proven to be 3-5x more efficient than other energy sources, while digital technology helps makes the invisible visible, driving new efficiencies and eliminating energy waste. Today the data center industry has made great progress in driving energy efficiency and sustainability, but it’s clear that more must be done in the quest to build a net zero future. If we can find new ways to reduce energy waste, we can reduce consumption, costs, and carbon emissions, and place ourselves right at the heart of the green transition.
Today Schneider Electric is partnering with STACK Infrastructure to help the organization power the path for a more sustainable, digital future. As part of an ongoing collaboration at its MIL01A data center, Schneider Electric has provided some of the foundational physical infrastructure and software, helping the organization achieve its ambitious energy efficiency and sustainability objectives. STACK, for example, has created a powerhouse of sustainable, efficient, and resilient colocation data centers, providing customers with unparalleled, flexible expansion capacity and a sustainable platform for growth. Its MIL01A facility delivers an annualized operational PUE of ~1.3, with a water usage effectiveness (WUE) of ~0.8 - all while meeting ASHRAE TC9.9 thermal guidelines. To achieve the highest levels of efficiency, STACK utilizes Schneider Electric’s Galaxy™ VX UPS with Li-Ion batteries, which offers up to 99% energy efficiency in eConversion™ mode, alongside Schneider Electric racks, Computer Room Air Conditioning (CRAC) units, electrical distribution, and switchgear. Software is also critical to its operations and in Milan, it utilizes Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure™ platform to gain granular levels of insight and control into the operating environment. Key modules include Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Data Center Expert, EcoStruxure IT™ Expert and Power Monitoring Expert modules – connecting the data center, electrical, mechanical and key critical systems together via DCIM and BMS to deliver reduced energy consumption, and a more efficient and holistic operation. Through a meticulous approach to design and operations, and by harnessing the power of Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure for Data Centers™ portfolio, STACK is delivering unmatched levels of sustainability and efficiency to clients in Italy. To learn more about the benefits of EcoStruxure Data Center Solutions, click here.
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“ THE ORGANISATIONS WE COLLABORATE WITH SHARE OUR SUSTAINABILITY PRINCIPLES AND WANT TO ACHIEVE THE SAME GOALS. WE ALL WANT TO BE ON THE SAME JOURNEY” AMY DANIELL
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGY AND DEVELOPMENT, STACK EMEA
together. We’re one STACK organisation in EMEA, one team, applying STACK’s global delivery principles to serve as a trusted partner to our clients.” Partners with common values central to STACK And although STACK is in a strong position to make positive change and significantly grow, it can’t do this on its own. “Partnerships are at the forefront of our business practice. We want to develop long-term relationships which are key to consistency and sustained success,” explains Daniell. “So to continue to deliver at pace and serve as a partner to our own clients, building strong relationships with our supply chain is essential,” Daniell stresses. “Trust is key. It’s a matter of building a strong supply chain and collaborating with them to achieve 18
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STACK’s data centre in Oslo
our goals of delivering excellence in service, on time and on budget, sustainably.” Daniell details how STACK’s partner companies are carefully selected. Shared core values, including the sustainable sourcing of raw materials, is non-negotiable. She admits that while many of STACK’s valued partnerships are already established, the company continues to seek alliances with those who also put sustainability and respect for the planet at the heart of their offering. “We’re looking at all of their processes because they’re part of our value chain,” she adds. “We’re making sure that once our buildings are fully operational,
we’ve worked diligently to understand the origin of every single component. The organisations we collaborate with share our sustainability principles and want to achieve the same goals. We all want to be on the same journey.” A phase of hypergrowth The term ‘sustainable future’ has more than one definition for Eland - to him, it applies to both the planet and the business. “Our entire industry is in a phase of hypergrowth. We were already experiencing a phase of strong growth driven by core compute requirements, but with the advent of AI – particularly over the last year – there
are larger-scale demand requirements coming to market that show no signs of slowing,” he details. Eland sees the next 12 to 18 months focused on ensuring STACK’s growth trajectory in EMEA continues to match that of its hyperscale clients, ensuring successful and safe delivery. “We see no evidence of these requirements diminishing. We are ensuring that we are well-placed, well-served and properly structured to support them as they arrive.”
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