International.
A recently released standard for data centers incorporates a performance-based approach that is more flexible and can involve innovative changes that occur rapidly in the design, construction, and operation in that industry.
The ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 90.4-10|6, Data Center Energy Standard, sets out the minimum energy efficiency requirements of data centers for design, construction, for creating an operation and maintenance plan, and for the use of renewable energy sources on or off-site.
"We have worked very hard to craft this standard in such a way that it does not affect innovation in the data center industry while simultaneously offering criteria that help save energy," said Ron Jarnagin, director of the 90.4 committee. "It's important to note that data centers are mission-critical facilities where risk management is the primary concern."
Jarnagin noted that large connected loads and the rapid advancement of IT technology make data center applications different from their commercial building counterparts. Standard 90.4 refers specifically to the unique energy needs of data centers.
Standard 90.4 is a performance-based design standard that offers MLC Mechanical Load Component and ELC Electrical Loss Component. The calculations of the MLC and ELC are made and then compared with the maximum permissible values indicated in the standard according to the climatic zone where the data center is located. Compliance with Standard 90.4 is achieved when the calculated values do not exceed the values contained in the standard. An alternative path is provided that allows compliance through trade-offs between the MLC and ELC.
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Source: ASHRAE Colombia Chapter.
