The cooling system used in this new data center is free cooling, which allows the compressors to shut off below 17°C, operating only the fans. This results in energy savings estimated at at least 80% of the typical chiller consumption during the winter months. Over the course of a year, this would equate to approximately 30% savings.

The economic savings are even greater, as energy costs are steadily rising in Chile and are projected to continue increasing in the coming years. Therefore, in terms of costs, the savings could reach 35% to 40%, meaning the company could recoup its investment within two years.

It's important to note that these are preliminary projections, as the solution was implemented at ADEXUS in July of this year, during the final months of winter. These savings will be verifiable after a year of operation.

In technical terms, the free cooling system used at ADEXUS is indirect and water-based. This is because, given the established safety standards for data centers, operating with a direct system is not recommended. In Santiago, implementing a direct air intake would also introduce contaminants, with the consequent risk to the equipment.

For this reason, the air circulating inside the rooms in an "isolated" circuit is cooled by water from the chillers in AHUs (Air Handling Units). Additionally, filters are installed to help maintain air cleanliness during recirculation.

ADEXUS opted for this intelligent cooling system because it was advantageous given Chile's climate. For many times of the year, the temperature does not exceed 17°C, and in these cases, cooling is not required; only air circulation is needed to achieve a suitable temperature inside the data center rooms. Thus, by not using the compressors, energy savings are achieved.

Currently, the ADEXUS data center operates at 22°C, a temperature considered suitable for the proper functioning of the equipment, according to the manufacturers. However, tests and analyses are constantly being conducted to achieve the temperature that provides the greatest energy efficiency.

It's worth noting that temperatures in Santiago, the city where ADEXUS's facilities are located, range from an average of 10°C in winter to an average of 27°C in summer. Therefore, it is estimated that the free cooling system can be used for approximately four months of the year. During the remaining period, when temperatures fluctuate more or rise, the chiller units operate in their traditional manner.

The supplier of this system for ADEXUS is Elevair SA, a Chilean company dedicated to providing power backup and climate control solutions, among other things. Elevair is directly advised by the manufacturer during the implementation process. Regarding the engineering of this particular system, specialists from both ADEXUS and Elevair collaborated on the design.

While rising energy costs were a key factor in choosing this cooling system for the new facilities, as it suggests a short-term return on investment, this aligns with the green trend in which ADEXUS has a strong interest. This and other processes have been aligned with the goal of achieving greater efficiency by reducing energy consumption.

For ADEXUS, transitioning to a Green DC not only provides environmental benefits but also reduces costs and risks, while generating new business opportunities.