Sustainable data centre lighting for the future

A Hub of Innovation

Kao Data leads the data centre industry with a focus on AI and advanced computing. Situated strategically between Cambridge and London, the 15-acre campus is built on the historical site of Sir Charles Kao's groundbreaking discovery of fibre optic cable in 1966. With over £230 million investment, the campus houses four cutting-edge, carrier-neutral data centres designed to support an IT load of 40MW, all powered by 100% renewable energy. The campus, which can expand to accommodate an IT load of 83MW, is a testament to the UK's position as a global leader in data infrastructure.

The lighting project

The lighting installation at the Kao Data centres was executed in multiple phases, starting with the KLON01 data centre project in 2019 and extending through to the KLON02 data centre and the ongoing KLON03 data centre projects. Each phase has been meticulously designed to align with Kao Data's vision of a sustainable and technologically advanced environment. Zumtobel and Thorn, in collaboration with JCA Engineering and MEIT Consultants, provided a tailored lighting solution that not only enhances the visual appeal of the spaces but also contributes to the campus's low Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.2—a benchmark in energy efficiency.

Objectives

The primary objective of the project was to implement a lighting system that maximises energy efficiency while maintaining the high operational standards required by a data centre. Kao Data sought to integrate a solution that would provide optimum lighting for technical spaces, reduce energy consumption, and ensure long-term sustainability. Additionally, the project aimed to enhance the facility's aesthetic quality, reflecting Kao Data's innovative spirit.

The future-proof scheme

Zumtobel's TECTON continuous-row luminaire system, the backbone of the scheme, was chosen for its superior performance, sustainability, and flexibility. TECTON is known for its long lifespan, excellent glare control, and high luminous efficacy, maintaining 95% of its efficacy even after ten years of continuous operation. Thorn Lighting's Aquaforce Pro vapourproof battens complemented TECTON for back-of-house areas, ForceLED vapourproof battens for external gantries, Omega Pro 2 panels in the offices, and Chalice downlights in toilets and stairways.

The TECTON system's modular design allowed for seamless integration of emergency lighting and sensors in the data halls, making it an ideal choice for a dynamic and future-proof environment like Kao Data. The lighting solution not only met but exceeded the stringent sustainability standards, contributing to the campus's BREEAM 'Excellent' certification.

Results and Benefits

The collaboration between Kao Data, JCA Engineering, MEIT Consultants, Zumtobel and Thorn has resulted in a lighting solution that optimally supports the data centre's operations while significantly reducing energy consumption when compared to older and less efficient solutions. The use of Zumtobel's TECTON system has ensured that the lighting is not only energy-efficient but sustainable as the system is reusable and can be upgraded through the lifetime of the product the project, making it highly adaptable to the changing needs of the data centre environment.

The efficiency benefits continue in the Thorn luminaires used in the white space areas. The project's success is reflected in the campus's recognition as one of the top business environments in East Anglia, as well as its ranking among the UK's most advanced and sustainable data centres.

Mike Tamblingson, Operations Director from Kao Data, expressed his satisfaction with the lighting upgrade: "Partnering with Zumtobel and Thorn, has been a factor in achieving our sustainability and operational goals at Kao Data. The TECTON lighting system's high performance and adaptability have ensured that our data centres not only meet but exceed industry standards for energy efficiency and operational excellence. Zumtobel and Thorn’s, commitment to quality and innovation has truly made a difference in our ongoing mission to provide world-class data services."

Looking Forward

As Kao Data continues to expand its campus with the completion of the KLON03 building in 2025, Zumtobel and Thorn remain a trusted partners in delivering lighting solutions that are sustainable, efficient, and aligned with the latest technological advancements.

Ed Haslett, Divisional Director for Critical Facilities Zumtobel Group UK&I, “Walking around the Harlow campus, you can see the care and attention that Kao and their project partners have taken to build a world class facility. I'm proud of the part we have played here. Our luminaires have precisely lit the spaces, especially in the technical suites. By using the right output and distribution beams, you can see that we have lit the racks very efficiently so the engineers can see exactly what they are working on at all times. These are the types of projects that Zumtobel and Thorn, excel in delivering, and we look forward to working on the upcoming Kao projects in Harlow and Manchester.”

The lighting solutions provided for Kao Data Centres are not just about meeting current needs—they are about preparing for the future. With a focus on long-term sustainability and technological innovation, Zumtobel and Thorn continue to light the way forward for Kao Data and the broader data centre industry.