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Secure I.T. Environments, which designs and constructs modular, containerised data centres, recently completed a project for a global telecommunications provider. The new data centre, located 1,800km west of mainland Africa on a remote South Atlantic island, aims to enhance operations, bridging next-generation satellite and subsea services.
Inaccessible by traditional means, the island presented notable challenges due to its volcanic terrain and minimal infrastructure. Yet, its geographical position offers suitable conditions for satellite connectivity, necessitating the creation of a facility capable of withstanding the island's harsh coastal environment. This project required risk management and adherence to safety and performance standards.
One of the project's key aspects was its logistical intricacies, involving coordination across continents and collaboration with the local community. With limited sea freight windows and only one weekly flight, stringent timing was important. SITE liaised with local residents, turning the project into a community effort and seeking to offer economic benefits to the island.
All phases, from delivery to personnel scheduling, needed precise timing to navigate the island's variable weather. The narrowing flight routes and unpredictable conditions required SITE to be resourceful to ensure progress despite any hurdles.
The solution was a modular facility designed to endure the island's specific conditions. Over a period of 12 months, SITE engineered and tested a multi-container system in the UK. The facility includes a primary data room, a separate UPS and switch room, and a lobby, all utilising materials resilient to high salinity and ocean spray. Features like high-density IT racks, N+1 energy-efficient cooling, and integrated security systems support a secure and operational environment.
Chris Wellfair, Projects Director at SITE, highlighted the success of the project, noting its logistical complexities and the positive outcome achieved through a modular approach and client cooperation.
