1. Define workloads, capacity and growth
Start with what will run in the facility and how much power it needs. Express capacity in kW of IT load, not just rack count, and plan phases so you can add capacity without disrupting live equipment.
2. Choose a reliability target
Reliability targets are commonly framed by tier level and redundancy. Higher tiers cost more but tolerate more failures and maintenance without downtime. Our tiers explained guide covers the differences.
3. Select the site
Evaluate candidate sites on:
- Grid power quality and the feasibility of a second feed
- Multiple, diverse fiber routes and carrier access
- Flood and other natural-hazard exposure
- Physical security, access and neighbouring risks
- Space for generators, fuel storage, chillers and future expansion
4. Design power
A typical chain runs from the utility feed (or generators) through switchgear and UPS to PDUs and racks. Size generators and UPS for the load with redundancy, test them under load, and plan fuel logistics. Where it makes sense, integrate solar or other renewable sources to cut running costs.
5. Design cooling
Heat and humidity make cooling design critical. Choose between CRAC units, chillers and other precision cooling methods, contain hot and cold aisles to improve efficiency, and plan monitoring of temperature and humidity at rack level.
6. Plan network, cabling and security
Structured and fiber cabling, meet-me or carrier rooms, fire detection and suppression, access control and CCTV should be designed with the layout, not added later.
7. Consider compliance
Data protection and sector rules can affect where data may be stored and how facilities must be operated. The Nigeria Data Protection Act and sector regulators may be relevant to your use case; confirm requirements with your legal advisers.
8. Build, commission and operate
Construction, equipment installation and integrated systems testing should prove that power and cooling fail over as designed. After handover, DCIM software and planned maintenance keep the facility resilient.