The 400kW NEXTDC M1 Data Centre project carried out by Energy Matters’ installation team was unveiled in December 2013.
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Project overview
Location
Melbourne, Victoria
System Size
401kW
Estimated Annual Production
555,000 kWh
CO2 Avoided Annually
670 tonnes
Solar Panels
1575 x REC 255W
Solar Inverter
9 Fronius CL series inverters
Award-winning REC solar panels, Fronius inverters and SunLock mounting systems were used in the installation. SunLock equipment was designed and developed by Energy Matters’ sister company, Apollo Energy, and manufactured in Australia.
The array included:
- 1,575 REC 255W Solar Panels utilising almost 4000 M2 of roof area
- 9 Fronius CL series inverters
- 10 km of DC cable
- 6.3 km of SunLock mounting rail
This massive solar panel system generated enough electricity to power 88 Australian homes and significantly reduced NEXTDC’s energy costs.
When the project was announced in 2012, NEXTDC said it aimed to lead the Australian ICT (Information and Communications Technology) sector in solar power generation and energy efficiency.
NEXTDC’s purpose-built facilities across Australia were designed to address the market’s growing need for energy-efficient, independent data centres to host organisations’ critical IT infrastructure, as well as the growth of cloud computing.
The success of the NEXTDC M1 Data Centre project showcased the tangible benefits of integrating solar energy into large-scale, power-hungry operations. Data centres are known for their significant energy consumption due to the continuous operation of servers, cooling systems, and support infrastructure. By incorporating a 400kW solar power system, NEXTDC made strides toward mitigating its carbon footprint while significantly reducing operational energy expenses. This project also served as an example of how forward-thinking companies can enhance sustainability through renewable energy investments.
The use of REC solar panels, Fronius inverters, and SunLock mounting systems ensured high reliability and performance, which were crucial for a facility that requires an uninterrupted power supply. Moreover, the strategic design of this installation enabled optimal energy capture without compromising the data centre’s structural integrity or operational functionality.
Looking to the future, this milestone could inspire other ICT businesses and heavy energy users to adopt renewable energy solutions. The potential for scaling up similar projects was immense, particularly as solar technology improves efficiency and affordability. NEXTDC’s pioneering spirit demonstrates that even high-energy sectors can achieve impressive sustainability goals with the right partners and planning.
The largest privately funded rooftop system in Australia (as at December 2013) was a taste of things to come in the nation’s commercial solar sector.
We executed an increasing number of commercial solar projects for companies looking to reduce operational costs and carbon emissions.
Our commercial arm performed the highest number of commercial-scale solar power system installations in Australia during the first quarter of 2013, with capacities of 20- 100kW.
This time-lapse video of NEXTDC’s data centre in Port Melbourne, Victoria, presents a stunning view of its rooftop covered with solar panels.
Curious about how solar solutions could benefit your own endeavours? Consider exploring free solar quotes from Energy Matters to discover the possibilities.
Considering a commercial-scale solar project? Contact us today, and we can begin to build your Melbourne solar power system together.
