Data centres are large server rooms which operate as communication hubs and offer companies cloud computing and other services. As telecommunication links and requirements grow, more and more data centres are being built, especially in the Nordic countries. In Norway, for example, VEO is currently building an electrification system for a gigantic data centre with a power demand of about 400 MW. It is evident that the company has all the resources necessary to match the challenges of even the most demanding projects.

“Data centres have high requirements on operational reliability, data security and quality, which sets particularly high demands on their electrification supplier,” says Mikael Hietala, Sales Manager, Industry Business Unit.

Data centres are built as brown field and green field projects. This means that they can be built, for example, in old factory facilities or as entirely new installations. VEO often supplies everything from the high voltage network connection to low voltage auxiliary electrical equipment. Their turnkey packages often include a wide range of VEO’s own products, such as medium and low voltage switchgear and bus duct systems.

“At VEO, we can take excellent care of all such projects, thanks to our extensive experience in electrification and automation,” Hietala explains.

“In terms of electricity, data centre projects don’t differ much from our other industrial projects. We have all the necessary expertise and experience.”

The Nordic countries are an ideal location for data centres. They have many advantages, the most important ones being an extremely reliable power grid and affordable electricity prices. Their balanced societies and peaceful environment are another positive feature – there are hardly any earthquakes or other natural disasters.

“In addition, Finland, for example, has many qualified IT experts and suitable facilities. Former industrial areas have substantial electrical power systems already fitted and many skilled persons in their vicinity,” Hietala explains.