Data center design and engineering

In a comprehensive location and feasibility study, we investigate the possibilities: is there sufficient land available? What about connectivity and energy supply? What is the impact on the environment? Are there opportunities for energy sharing with the surrounding area? We analyze the suitability of the location with regard to infrastructure, the environment, and regulations.

This is followed by the permitting phase, in which we guide our clients through the complex process of obtaining permits. We conduct environmental impact assessments (EIA) and ensure that the project complies with all regulations.

Each data center is custom-designed to suit the specific characteristics of the location and the customer's needs. We take into account factors such as the possibility of water cooling, the need for noise barriers in residential areas, or specific requirements such as a green roof. During this phase, our architecture and engineering teams in Belgium work closely with our global network of data center experts to achieve the optimal design.

When we are responsible for the entire site, we also design the surrounding infrastructure, such as roads, sewerage, surrounding offices, and landscaping. Our biodiversity experts are committed to achieving a positive impact on local biodiversity by integrating green zones, natural water buffers, and habitat improvement into the design. This allows us to create not only a functional environment, but also one that is ecologically valuable.

Cost management is an important aspect throughout the entire process. Thanks to our expertise and market knowledge, we can provide customers with optimal information and support in making the best design choices, ensuring that the budget is managed accurately from the outset and financial risks are minimized.

We also offer comprehensive advice during the tendering and award phase, so that the client can start the construction phase on a solid foundation. This includes evaluating tenders, drawing up contracts, and managing risks to ensure that the project runs smoothly and meets all expectations.

We then take on the role of project manager during the construction phase. This phase consists of a number of clear steps that we follow meticulously:

1. Site preparation and utilities
2. Foundations and steel structures (civil and structural works)
3. Installation of electrical systems, piping, ventilation, and fire safety (MEP)
4. Finishing, testing, and commissioning

Even after a data center has been commissioned, Arcadis remains a reliable partner. We support clients in the maintenance and evolution of their assets, such as upgrading equipment (e.g., increasing UPS capacity, renewing cooling systems, or performing risk analyses), carrying out preventive maintenance, and monitoring energy consumption and asset management. We do this using innovative technologies such as digital twins, which provide real-time insight into performance and efficiency. Continuity is key: even during maintenance work, we ensure that the data center remains operational.

Energy-efficient and sustainable data center solutions

At Arcadis, we use advanced technologies to minimize the energy consumption of data centers. With innovative solutions such as liquid cooling, modular designs, and reuse of residual heat, we improve energy efficiency and sustainability. In addition, we integrate renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy, supported by microgrids and storage systems, to reduce dependence on the main grid.

Our commitment to sustainability goes further: we support customers' Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and invest in large-scale projects for long-term energy transition. We also offer expertise in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and hydrogen-ready turbines, which help stabilize the energy grid and increase efficiency.