Modernizing existing infrastructure enables scalable growth, resilience and long-term value, without disruption
Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure and business continuity solutions, announces that it has successfully completed the modernization of its headquarters data center cooling infrastructure. Action in Madrid. Acciona announced that the project has led to a reduction of approximately 70% in energy consumption related to cooling and expects a return on investment in approximately three years, while maintaining total operational continuity.
Following a proactive assessment conducted by Vertiv's support team, opportunities were identified to further improve the performance of cooling units that had been operating reliably for over a decade. The objective was clear: to increase energy efficiency and available capacity without interrupting operations or compromising service availability.
Rather than replacing existing assets, the project demonstrates how rethinking the performance of existing infrastructure through a lifecycle and growth-oriented design approach can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and future capacity. The project builds on a long-standing collaboration between Acciona and Vertiv and reflects a shared vision: to design data center performance not only for today's needs, but also for the company's future growth, efficiency and resilience.
The solution focuses on upgrading from fixed-speed AC fans to high-efficiency, variable-speed EC (Electronically Commutated) fans integrated with controllers Vertiv™ Liebert® iCOM for real-time optimization of unit components and setpoints. Unlike conventional cooling units that operate at a constant speed, the upgraded system dynamically adjusts airflow based on actual demand, improving system responsiveness and helping to extend the lifecycle of the infrastructure.
Prior to full implementation, Vertiv and Acciona validated the solution through a pilot upgrade on two cooling units, confirming expected energy savings and system improvements. The complete modernization was achieved without interrupting normal operational activities, taking advantage of the existing N+1 redundancy to ensure operational continuity without downtime. In addition to improving energy efficiency, the optimization freed up cooling capacity and available power within the data center, creating scope for future IT expansions without requiring large capital investments.
Carlos García Fernández, director of engineering and processes at Acciona, said: "We would like to thank the entire Vertiv team for the excellent management of this project. We are very satisfied with the improvement in energy efficiency and freed capacity, all achieved with minimal interruptions and without any downtime."
The project highlights Vertiv's long-term lifecycle approach to critical infrastructure, aiming for continuous optimization, operational resilience and alignment with customer growth strategies.
