Customer Profile: The customer is a global technology company specializing in infrastructure, software, and consulting services. Their expertise enables clients to transform mission-critical businesses through digital innovation. As a leader in technology integration, they are committed to driving sustainability and operational efficiency in their facilities worldwide.
Customer Challenge: The customer’s primary goal was to reduce energy consumption in its labs by 4%, starting with their Eastern NY facility, as part of its broader sustainability initiatives. However, the outdated infrastructure in their data center cooling systems was consuming more energy than necessary, driving up operational costs. The control kits on their CRAC (Computer Room Air Conditioning) units, which were 20–30 years old, not only contributed to inefficiencies but also made it increasingly challenging to source replacement parts, jeopardizing the equipment’s reliability.
To address these challenges, the customer prioritized upgrading the infrastructure to improve energy efficiency and cost savings while ensuring each CRAC unit remained fully operational at the end of every workday during the upgrade. Despite the tight project timelines and technical complexities, Stark Tech’s team of Vertiv-trained technicians delivered the expertise and resources needed to successfully complete the project, meeting all requirements.
Stark Solution: Stark Tech’s team of technicians, service advisors, dispatchers, and account managers collaborated closely with the on-site service provider over the course of the entire project. Our team ensured a seamless transition from the old control kits to new, advanced systems with limited disruption to operations.
Key improvements include:
- VFD Installation: Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) were installed on each unit, allowing fan speeds to adjust based on heat load, optimizing energy efficiency.
- Vertiv ICOM2 controls: This controls upgrade enables improved efficiency, enhanced monitoring, better reliability, and extended equipment life.
- Vertiv ICOM-S Implementation: This supervisory system enabled precise monitoring and control of the data center environment, providing real-time data on heat loads from individual server racks. The enhanced controls increased overall efficiency and operational flexibility.
Project Result: The 2024 upgrades in Eastern NY include:
- Controls and VFD upgrades for 43 Vertiv units
- Installation of two supervisory panels
This $1.54M project resulted in significant energy efficiency gains:
- The majority of CRAC units now operate at approximately 70% capacity, achieving a 65% reduction in energy consumption. Before the project, the estimated kWh per unit was 55,381kWh; after its 19,583 kWh.
- The project qualified for $500,000 in energy rebates from the local utility provider.
Impressed with these results, the customer expanded their engagement with Stark Tech, requesting quotes for:
- 71 additional Vertiv units in Eastern NY
- 12 units in North Carolina
- 11 units in Texas
Stark Tech’s team delivered significant energy savings and operational improvements for this global technology leader. These upgrades not only supported the customer’s immediate goals but also laid the groundwork for continued sustainability and efficiency across their data centers nationwide.
Additional projects are being planned for 2026, reinforcing Stark Tech’s role as a trusted partner in driving efficiency and sustainability across the customer’s national operations.
Equipment Installed:
- Vertiv VFD and ICOM2 controls upgrades
- Vertiv ICOM-S data center monitoring and optimization system
