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OVHcloud, a prominent name in the global cloud industry, has announced a pioneering cooling architecture for its datacenters. Dubbed the OVHcloud Smart Datacenter, the system integrates advanced industrial designs with artificial intelligence features, effectively lowering both power and water usage. This innovative technology aims to cut down water usage by up to 30% and minimise cooling electricity consumption by up to 50%.
"We are delighted to unveil a new generation of evaporative cooling solutions, including Smart Racks. With our one integrated cooling loop design, we are paving the way for Smart Datacenters that leverage our most advanced technologies as well as artificial intelligence to tackle what was once an impossible equation," noted Miroslaw Klaba, the OVHcloud R&D Director.
The fifth-generation OVHcloud server rack has been developed over two years to accommodate new server technologies, boosting the company's commitment to sustainability. A remarkable revision in server layout sees clusters embedded in series for cooling, streamlining component arrangements, and aiding energy conservation at the rack level.
In an intelligent "pull" hydraulic formation, each server benefits from exact water flow and pressure requirements. Direct-to-chip waterblocks, expertly fashioned by OVHcloud, manage the cooling, circulating heat through a closed-loop water system that spans the entire datacenter.
The cooling module, now more compact, can efficiently cool several rack rows and is equipped with over 30 sensors. These devices monitor critical parameters and optimise cooling settings in real-time, thus extending equipment lifespan and enhancing power efficiency.
The revamped Smart Dry Cooler, located externally, occupies half the space and fan count compared to previous models. This contributes to a significant reduction in cooling power consumption and ambient noise levels.
Moreover, the latest OVHcloud Smart Racks leverage AI for predictive maintenance and operational adjustments based on a thorough analysis of their environment. Data collected from the racks feeds a datalake, enabling predictive algorithms to fine-tune maintenance practices. By connecting to local weather stations, the system achieves optimal water usage for adiabatic cooling pads, avoiding traditional recirculation systems and their complex components.
Through predictive and adaptive algorithms, OVHcloud Smart Racks enhance operational efficiency, adjusting variables such as pump speed and fan operation in response to external factors like noise restrictions or water scarcity.
For over 25 years, OVHcloud has led the charge in sustainable cloud technology, leaning on a vertically integrated model renowned for responsible digital advancement. The R&D department, responsible for over a hundred cooling patents, champions water cooling at scale, reinforcing OVHcloud's reputation for industry-leading PUE and WUE metrics.
As part of its commitment to sustainable AI, the Group’s latest infrastructure rollout aligns with their coalition pledge from February 2025, reflecting a steadfast dedication to sustainability concepts progressing worldwide.
The new technology is in action at Roubaix, utilising approximately 60 racks and 2,000 servers. Plans are underway for a comprehensive rollout across OVHcloud’s facilities.
