Direct Communication Solutions Drives Sustainability at AtNorth's Award-Winning ICE03 Data Center
- AtNorth's ICE03 data center won the Environmental Impact Award for its sustainable design and innovative cooling technology.
- The facility utilizes local renewable energy and channels excess heat into community projects, enhancing local engagement.
- Over 90% of the workforce for ICE03 is local, reflecting AtNorth's commitment to regional economic growth and social responsibility.
AtNorth's ICE03 Data Center: Pioneering Sustainable Innovation in Data Management
AtNorth, a prominent Nordic provider of high-density colocation and built-to-suit data centers, recently receives the Environmental Impact Award at the Data Center Dynamics Awards for its groundbreaking ICE03 data center located in Akureyri, Iceland. This accolade underscores AtNorth's dedication to reducing the ecological footprint of data center operations through innovative and sustainable design. The ICE03 facility is strategically situated to capitalize on Iceland's naturally cool climate and its abundant renewable energy resources. It utilizes Direct Liquid Cooling (DLC) technology, which enhances energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. This approach not only ensures optimal performance but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, setting a benchmark within the industry.
The design of ICE03 incorporates sustainable construction materials, including Glulam and Icelandic rockwool, which further reduces its environmental impact. In collaboration with the local municipality, the facility is also engineered for heat reuse, channeling excess heat into community projects. One notable initiative is the repurposing of waste heat to support a greenhouse aimed at educating local children on ecological cultivation practices. This innovative integration of data center operations with community welfare exemplifies AtNorth's holistic approach to corporate responsibility, emphasizing the importance of local engagement in sustainable development efforts.
Moreover, ICE03 achieves an impressive Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of less than 1.2, significantly below the global average of 1.56. This efficiency enables the data center to support high-performance workloads sustainably while also fostering economic growth within the Akureyri area. Over 90% of the workforce involved in the development of ICE03 is sourced locally, reflecting AtNorth's commitment to bolstering the regional economy. The establishment of this data center not only enhances technological infrastructure but also creates a new point of presence (POP) that improves connectivity for the local community. AtNorth’s initiatives embody a profound commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, positioning the company as a leader in sustainable data center operations.
In addition to its innovative data center solutions, AtNorth actively participates in community initiatives, providing support to local education and charities. The company has donated mechatronics equipment to the Vocational College of Akureyri and sponsors various local sports and community events, further reinforcing its commitment to social engagement. AtNorth’s comprehensive approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also promotes the long-term viability of the local economy, demonstrating how technology and community welfare can coexist harmoniously.
The significance of AtNorth's efforts in establishing the ICE03 facility extends beyond operational excellence; it serves as a model for future data center developments worldwide, highlighting the importance of sustainability in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
