The Challenge:
To keep up with technology, data centres across the country must keep data online 24/7. To successfully do this requires backup power sources, and in the case of Q9 Networks, they rely on backup diesel generators – often above 15 MW capacity – as well as ancillary cooling equipment. This equipment, of course, has to meet stringent noise limits which differ from province to province.
The Innovation:
We were tasked with making sure that Q9 Networks were operating within these limits so we needed to take a complex approach in order to maximize the flexibility of operations while still meeting the requisite noise limits at nearby sensitive locations. Locations included nearby dwellings, site offices, as well as accessible outside areas near the backup diesel generators. The sites can operate within the noise requirements of the given jurisdiction — be it Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, or elsewhere.
