Equinix is partnering with the National University of Singapore (NUS) to create a pioneering Co-Innovation Facility (CIF) in Singapore. This venture aims to develop sustainable technologies for data centers, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability. The CIF will be housed in Equinix’s upcoming SG6 data center, marking a significant step in Equinix’s Data Centre of the Future Initiative.
Amidst the rapid growth of Singapore’s digital economy–expanding at a nearly 13% annual rate since 2017 and contributing 17.3% to the nation’s GDP in 2022–the initiative is timely. Singapore aims to establish itself as a global hub for business and innovation. With a planned investment exceeding SGD $740 million in artificial Intelligence over the next five years, the push towards sustainable data center practices becomes critical.
The CIF will feature innovative technologies like liquid cooling and cognitive digital twins, addressing energy use and cooling in tropical environments. Equinix has committed an initial USD $4 million investment for this initiative. Yee May Leong, Managing Director of Equinix Singapore, emphasized the urgency of embedding sustainable practices in operations due to the effects of climate change.
According to Yee May Leong, “The effects of climate change are being felt around the world, and it is becoming increasingly urgent to embed best practices in every aspect of our operations. By replicating our successful Co-Innovation Facility from Ashburn and expanding our collaborative efforts in the Asia-Pacific region, we are reaching a significant milestone in advancing our ‘Future First’ sustainability agenda. It will accelerate the development of cutting-edge technologies and apply real-world solutions to help reduce the carbon footprint of the growing number of data centres worldwide.”
Professor Lee Poh Seng of the NUS highlights the collaboration’s role in transforming research into practical applications. This partnership will use their combined expertise in energy innovation to tackle challenges data centers face in tropical climates. It is a crucial element of Singapore’s aspirations for sustainable development and technological leadership.
Professor Lee Poh Seng asserted, “The establishment of the Co-Innovation Facility highlights our commitment to forging impactful industry partnerships that translate groundbreaking research into practical applications. Collaborating with Equinix enables us to leverage our expertise in energy innovation and sustainability to address critical challenges faced by data centres in tropical climates. Together, we aim to redefine benchmarks for operational efficiency and sustainability in digital infrastructure, aligning with Singapore’s ambitions for sustainable development and technological leadership. This partnership is a powerful step forward in shaping a future where cutting-edge innovation meets environmental responsibility.”
Technologies to be explored include alternative power solutions like fuel cells and battery storage, offering low-carbon energy options. The CIF will also investigate direct current power distribution systems designed to integrate renewable energy with data center power networks. Liquid cooling and cognitive digital twin capabilities will enhance energy use and predictive maintenance.
Equinix and NUS have already collaborated on sustainability projects, such as hydrogen-based green fuel studies. Equinix’s commitment to reducing emissions by 2030 aligns with the initiative’s vision, signifying a significant advancement in environmental strategy.
