Shantel
Key Takeaways:
- Loughborough University has completed a comprehensive data centre modernisation project, collaborating with Schneider Electric and on365.
- The project has resulted in a robust IT infrastructure featuring energy-efficient technologies and data-driven insights for both academic and sporting research.
- The university’s upgraded data centres provide critical support for advancements in sports science and a more sustainable operation.
- Future IT sustainability is secured by embracing resilient, energy-efficient technologies and proactive maintenance.
About Loughborough University
As the global leader in sports-related subjects, Loughborough University is home to the UK’s most extensive collection of world-class sports facilities and serves a vibrant community of 19,500 students. The university’s innovative academic and research activities are firmly rooted in its cutting-edge IT infrastructure, from high-performance computing servers to a highly virtualised data centre environment.
Boosting Data Centre Efficiency
Loughborough University embarked on a significant modernisation project at its Haslegrave and Holywell Park data centres, addressing data centre challenges such as a complete redesign, updating legacy cooling systems, and enhancing cooling efficiencies.
Partnering with on365 and Schneider Electric, a leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, the university employed innovative solutions like the EcoStruxure Row Data Center, InRow Cooling solution, Galaxy VS UPS, and EcoStruxure IT software. This project aimed to increase the reliability of its IT infrastructure and support breakthroughs in sporting research.
The modernisation project, which was conducted in two phases, initially replaced the outdated raised floor of the Haslegrave facility with Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Row Data Center solution. This integration significantly improved the overall structure, making the environment suitable for a new generation of compact and powerful servers.
“A well-structured preventative maintenance program is vital to ensure that the data centre and IT systems are optimised and operationally efficient,” stated Carl Richardson, Technology Support Manager, on365 Ltd.
Strengthening Resilience and Efficiency
Through the adoption of the EcoStruxure Row Data Center solution, Loughborough University now has a more reliable infrastructure capable of dealing with unplanned weather events, such as heatwaves. Moreover, by replacing legacy UPSs with Schneider Electric’s Galaxy VS UPS with lithium-ion batteries, the university achieved a remarkable 99% energy efficiency without compromising availability.
“Working with Schneider Electric and on365 has enabled our data centre to become more efficient, effective and resilient,” said Mark Newall, IT specialist at the University of Loughborough.
Streamlining Data Centre Management and Services
Beyond the hardware upgrades, the university also transitioned to Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure IT platform to manage and control its infrastructure. This move towards a data-driven approach ensures potential faults are identified and mitigated before they escalate into critical issues.
Paired with a three-year Schneider Electric services agreement via on365, Loughborough University now has round-the-clock access to expert maintenance support and real-time visibility of its IT operations.
Mark Yeeles, VP, Secure Power Division, Schneider Electric, UK and Ireland, added, “Through its EcoStruxure Data Centre Solution, Schneider Electric will have played an important part in future-proofing its critical infrastructure, helping improve the reliability and sustainability of its IT operations.”
Looking Ahead: Sustainability and Future-Proofing
The collaboration between Schneider Electric, on365, and Loughborough University represents a significant step forward in the university’s IT sustainability strategy. By modernising its infrastructure with resilient and energy-efficient technologies, the university is well-positioned to support future breakthroughs in sporting research, improving the quality of its offerings and ensuring its reputation as a global leader in academia and sports-related subjects.
For further information on the Loughborough University project, visit the website.
About Schneider Electric
Schneider’s mission is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. Discover Life Is On.
About on365
on365 is an independent specialist provider of energy-efficient physical infrastructure and data centre services for public sector, SME, and corporate clients across the UK and Europe. Learn more here.
