Merlin: Modularity Drives Efficiency

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This view provides a sense of the size of the modular structures within the 32,000 foot facility.

The new Capgemini data center in Swindon, England doesn't officially open its doors until Sept. 17. But Capgemini is touting its Merlin facility as the newest contender for the title of "world's most efficient data center." It's a bold claim, but the Merlin project is notable in a number of respects. It employs a modular design, uses free cooling, has no raised floors or ducts, and uses an automated system to control airflow. Capgemini will reportedly have the UK Environmental Agency as its anchor tenant, and plans to pursue certification for LEED status from the U.S. Green Building Council as well as a Tier III certification from The Uptime Institute. And yes, the company is advertising a low Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) rating of 1.10. Can Merlin deliver on its advance billing? See our special photo feature on Merlin: Capgemini's Modular Data Center.