22/07/2021
IBM, the big blue of technology at the Barcelona Synchrotron Park
IBM, the big blue of technology at the Barcelona Synchrotron Park
Due to its infrastructure and location, the Barcelona Synchrotron Park (BSP) is a privileged place to set up data centres: first-level electric infrastructure (high capacity, high reliability, possibility of redundant power supply from cogeneration), top-quality telecommunications infrastructure (7 operators with own networks and different access points), ambient air compatible with free-cooling technologies, minimal risks and minimal energy costs, etc. Currently, the BSP already hosts four operative data centres and offers 42,000 m2 of land specially adapted to house new ones.
In this context, the IBM company —also known as Big Blue—, leader in areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud, quantum computing and security, has an important presence in the BSP. In 2013, the US multinational set up its Cloud Computing Centre in our Park, in a building shared with Silc Immobles, a CaixaBank subsidiary which owns the structure. Both entities benefit from the synergies generated in this facility, since IBM is also a long-standing strategic partner of the financial institution.
The building, Tier III certified by Uptime Institute, is designed by IDOM group’s ACXT Architects and includes over 6,000 m2 of processors distributed over 18 IT rooms, as well as exploitation and parking areas, offices, workshops, etc. The typology required a maximum technological functionality, prioritising flexibility, scalability and energy efficiency, in the three floors with computer rooms as well as in the two technical floors of the building. The challenge of the project was to strike a balance between this functionality and the minimum environmental impact. The application of sustainable design criteria and good practices made it possible to obtain the LEED certification.
In this context, the IBM company —also known as Big Blue—, leader in areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud, quantum computing and security, has an important presence in the BSP. In 2013, the US multinational set up its Cloud Computing Centre in our Park, in a building shared with Silc Immobles, a CaixaBank subsidiary which owns the structure. Both entities benefit from the synergies generated in this facility, since IBM is also a long-standing strategic partner of the financial institution.
The building, Tier III certified by Uptime Institute, is designed by IDOM group’s ACXT Architects and includes over 6,000 m2 of processors distributed over 18 IT rooms, as well as exploitation and parking areas, offices, workshops, etc. The typology required a maximum technological functionality, prioritising flexibility, scalability and energy efficiency, in the three floors with computer rooms as well as in the two technical floors of the building. The challenge of the project was to strike a balance between this functionality and the minimum environmental impact. The application of sustainable design criteria and good practices made it possible to obtain the LEED certification.
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