“We are working on digital twin methodologies for data centres to optimise their operation and predictive maintenance”
TECNALIA takes part in the DATIA initiative to develop solutions to optimise the efficiency and sustainability of data centres, the pillars of the digital economy
Data centres (DCs) are at the heart of the digital economy, but they also have a high energy and environmental impact. DATIA has emerged as a response to this global challenge, offering a new model based on efficiency, flexibility and connectivity to reduce consumption, minimise emissions and move forward towards the energy transition.
Technologies that make a difference
The initiative will develop advanced solutions to transform the management of digital infrastructures:
- Artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance and autonomous energy management.
- Digital twins to simulate and adjust the behaviour of data centres in real time.
- Blockchain to ensure energy traceability and transparency in emissions.
- Life cycle assessment (LCA) and eco-design methodologies to reduce environmental impact from the initial phase.
Digital twins, predictive maintenance and environmental characterisation
TECNALIA is working on methodologies to develop digital twins for DCs, defining data schemas and ontologies that structure key information on the components of a DC, particularly in terms of energy, security, and maintenance. This work is applied to a real case study, using its BIM model as a starting point and then looking to integrate simulation data to create a dynamic representation of the building.
We also develop modules to optimise operations and carry out predictive maintenance. This includes models for predicting photovoltaic production and battery performance, and models for detecting anomalies, diagnosis, prognosis, and maintenance assistance for HVAC equipment and photovoltaic systems.
At the same time, we are collaborating on the environmental characterisation of the DC and its decarbonisation technologies, with the aim of building an environmental digital twin.
Impact and future outlook
Over the next three years, we will develop and validate a reference architecture that can be replicated in sectors such as industry, construction, and public administration. As a result, the initiative will look to consolidate itself as a benchmark in the construction of sustainable and efficient data spaces, in line with European green digitalisation strategies.
DATIA is an initiative co-funded by the European Union and the Community of Madrid, coordinated by Cobra Solutions and made up of organisations such as Future Space, PQC, MYTRA, Global Factor, CEP Energía, iCommunity, IMDEA Software Institute, TECNALIA, the University of Alcalá and Secartys.