Cost of energy, increases in data volume, concerns about national energy supplies are all likely to feature as just one of many facility management headaches. Without obviously having the ability to predict the future, there is little else to do but be prepared for every eventuality. Granted this could prove to be a potentially costly exercise, but there will always be ways of at least trying to mitigate what tomorrow holds. With the best will, most energy management approaches will endeavour to allow for system loading and the potential for expansion, however budget and space constraints can mean from an IT perspective, it is difficult to move at the pace that computers, data processing and communications technology are developing. However, self-contained power solutions can be quickly delivered and installed with all the necessary switch gear and distribution panels to supply uninterruptible power or even provide a fully operational server room or data centre to meet demands.
Why might you want a containerised power solution?
Maybe the standby power solution originally purchased no longer meets the requirements, or unfortunately you have neither the space nor budget to complete a full UPS upgrade. The current data centre might be overloaded, but there is a lack of space to add to the existing operation. Perhaps the business is not quite ready to take on the full expense of the capital investment, or a move is afoot and really you could do with a power solution that can move with the business.
Every situation is different, and not every environment requires a permanent standby power installation. In some instances a temporary system may be preferable to address energy management challenges. This could be to deliver a resilient power supply for a specific project or event, to even supporting the replacement of existing critical power equipment.
The advantages of a ‘plug-and-play’ standby power approach
Whatever the intentions, a containerised power solution will deliver a flexible, modular and scalable energy management system – all designed to meet requirements. The advantages are that this is a realistic option to expanding the critical power capacity, either permanently or for a temporary hire on a short, medium or long term basis. Fully weather proofed, these self-contained spaces are ideal at optimising space and as they are built and tested off site, they arrive ready to connect and use.
In addition, the compact footprint (either a 20-foot or 40-foot container) means they can be located externally, allowing for more of the building to be used for the critical IT infrastructure and limiting alterations to the current site. Plus, the modular system makes them scalable and able to be easily integrated onsite using trailer mounted transport. Their efficiency using the latest technologies means they can actually save energy and reduce operational costs, while being affordable to fit with short or long-term business requirements and budgets.
A standby power system for today, able to react to tomorrow’s needs
Delivering power when and where you need it, containerised power solutions can be delivered, installed and maintained at your chosen location. Guaranteeing against power failure the options of what can be done with these containers are endless. You might be seeking a generator of 40 – 500KVA or even a self-contained unit of up to 2MVA backup power. With complete UPS systems of up to 1MVA, the variations are extensive and can actually be built up over time as the business expands.
Integrated air conditioning or natural ventilation cooling systems means that there are no concerns for equipment overheating. You may also have reservations about the noise, particularly if they are located outside of the building, however innovations in sound proofing means they are designed to meet 85 dBA at 1m with 70-80mm rock wool with the additional option for extra density and thickness to further control noise levels. And importantly, they can also be equipped with other essentials such as electrical services, including lighting, power, intruder, fire alarms and fire suppression systems.
As Martin Pearce, Sales Director at Critical Power says, “Whatever your reasons; a custom-made containerised energy management system, UPS, data centre or generator offers assured business continuity. The result is a transportable system that can be rapidly deployed to meet the requirements of your business.”
