As demand for data storage continues to increase with the rise in AI and cloud computing, the need for data centers has become more critical than ever. Constructing one is not as simple as it may seem. It isn’t all just racks, cooling systems, and lights. Constructing and orchestrating the electrical infrastructure behind a powerhouse data center is no small feat.
Here are the top three electrical considerations when planning a large data center:
1. Do you have power capacity?
Before breaking ground, ask yourself: Do we have the power? Data centers require massive electrical capacity, and not every location is equipped to deliver it. You’ll need to assess whether the local electrical grid can support your current and future demands. With AI workloads driving growth in data processing and storage, power availability is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.
Start by evaluating the existing infrastructure and identifying potential upgrades or partnerships with utility providers. Planning for scalability from day one ensures your data center won’t hit a power ceiling as your needs grow.
2. Time is money, especially when it comes to the electrical schedule.
In construction, the schedule is always a main concern. But in data center projects, it’s absolutely everything. The electrical schedule directly impacts every other phase of the build. The faster key components can be installed, the sooner occupancy and data operations can begin.
For example, the quicker you’re able to lay medium-voltage cable, the sooner low voltage can be installed, data racks can go in, etc. Every delay in electrical work has a ripple effect, so having a well-coordinated schedule and an experienced team is essential.
3. Do you have an electrical partner who understands and has experience working on data center projects?
Data centers are complex. They demand precision, the highest standard of workmanship and craftsmanship, and meticulous logistical planning. The margin of error is razor-thin. That’s why choosing an electrical partner with proven data center experience is crucial. You need a team that’s been in the trenches, one that understands the nuances and complexities, has solved real-world challenges, and has developed processes to navigate the unique demands of these projects. When the stakes are high, experience isn’t just helpful, it’s critical.
Building a data center is a major investment, and the electrical infrastructure is one of its most vital components. By ensuring power capacity, streamlining your schedule, and partnering with seasoned professionals, you set the foundation for a successful, scalable, and efficient facility.
By Chris Fischer
Project Executive
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