EDITOR’S COMMENT & CONTENTS Data centres face growing power crunch


T


he explosive growth of data centres has become one of the defining infrastructure challenges of our digital age. Driven by cloud computing,


AI, streaming and remote working, demand is accelerating at a pace few anticipated. Yet, as several features in this issue highlight, one of the main constraints is electrical infrastructure. Across the UK and Ireland, data centre projects are


increasingly being delayed or downsized because the electrical grid simply cannot keep up. In his feature, Suneel Appan of Future Biogas explores how unsubsidised biomethane offers a credible, stable and immediately available alternative, enabling operators to bridge the gap while grid capacity lags behind demand. (See Pg18)


Janitza’s perspective cuts through the optimistic headlines around AI-led expansion to ask a more


fundamental question: can Britain’s electrical infrastructure cope? The company contends that real-time power quality monitoring has evolved from optional to essential, with comprehensive systems capturing electrical parameters at millisecond intervals to detect problems before they cascade into failures. (See pg 23) Finally, Phil Wiltshire of Pensdown makes clear, none of this digital growth is possible without highly specialised electrical systems. He contends by combining technical expertise with a strategic approach to resilience and energy efficiency, it’s possible to ensure data centres meet today’s needs and are prepared for tomorrow. (See pg 20). The BSEE team wishes all our readers, contributors and advertisers a happy and prosperous New Year. Heather Ramsden, Editor


Editor: Heather Ramsden hramsden@datateam.co.uk Tel: 07974 903 726


Business Director: Jacqui Henderson jhenderson@datateam.co.uk Tel: 01622 699116


Circulation and Subcription enquiries: Curwood CMS Ltd datateam@c-cms.com Tel: 01580 883844 Subcription charges:


UK and Europe (£97), Overseas (£130) From the Editor 8 14 23


JAN_100_AI Power Crunch_ Img1


The Editor and Publisher do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters, the Editor’s decision is final. This issue includes editorial and imagery provided and paid for by suppliers.


Sustainability Partner ISSN 1042-310


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4 News & Appointments Industry news, appointments and quotes


6 Building Regulations Why early design decisions have never been more crucial


8 Heating, Ventilation & Energy Efficiency Smart lights control heating in elite athletics school


10 Heating, Ventilation & Energy Efficiency Small things can make the difference in the drive to Net Zero


12 Training Building capability: how skills will shape the next phase of HVAC


13 Industry Comment A retrospective look back at the past 12 months in the ever-evolving BEMS sector


14 Construction & Renovation Helping building owners reconfigure with ease


16 Construction & Renovation High performance doorsets perfect choice for local community-centric scheme


18 Data centres Unlocking power, investment and Net Zero credibility for data centres


20 Data centres Data centres and the challenge to power the digital age


23 Data centres The AI power crunch: how UK data centres are tackling unprecedented electrical demands


24 Pipes, Valves & Fittings How confidence in MMC is redefining the future of construction


26 Low Carbon Buildings Decarbonisation of domestic heating using energy from waste


27 Installation News


Hot water application design and supply for commercial buildings Low-carbon electric systems for new build specification Gas system retrofit to control emissions and costs


- HEAT PUMPS - SOLAR THERMAL - ELECTRIC BOILERS - LIVE METERING - CYLINDERS -PACKAGED SYSTEMS - PLANT ROOMS - GAS WATER HEATERS - 01252 551 540 enquiries@adveco.co Adveco.co Read the latest at: www.bsee.co.uk Adveco qp BSEE Jan26.indd 1 2/12/25 09:25 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER JANUARY 2026 3


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