DATA CENTER · BARCELONA, SPAIN
NEW CONSTRUCTION
The building is covered by a ventilated façade cladding with photovoltaic glass. The glass envelope is formed by 1834 active laminated photovoltaic glass units of 1690 x 1000 mm and a nominal power of 162 Wp per m2 (15 Wp /sq ft) This glass envelope provides the building not only with aesthetic continuity, but also provides the great insulation that impact directly in saving for air cooling.
BAR01 is an industry-leading performance and sustainable design, directly connected to the Barcelona Cable Landing Station, providing secure, low-latency links to North America, South America, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The state-of-the-art facility is optimized for both energy and water efficiency, powered by 100% renewable energy with ultra-clean backup systems. It saves 27,200,000 kg of CO2 per year and 239,200,000 liters of water annually. Backup generators powered by hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) reduce CO2 emissions by 90%. The photovoltaic glass façade integrated into the data center stands out for its exceptional energy efficiency, achieving a 1.15 PUE, which is 74% less overhead energy compared to the industry average.
This remarkable efficiency translates into reduced energy consumption, cost savings, and a smaller environmental footprint—a benchmark for sustainability in the digital age.
The photovoltaic glass used for this data center was specifically selected to meet the high energy demands and environmental control requirements of such a facility. The façade’s ability to generate substantial clean energy on-site significantly reduces the building’s dependence on external power sources, an essential feature for data centers, where uninterrupted energy supply is crucial. Additionally, the thermal insulation provided by the photovoltaic glass plays a vital role in regulating indoor temperatures, helping to keep the facility cool while minimizing the need for extensive air conditioning. This reduces both energy consumption and operational costs, making the building more efficient. The design of the glass not only enhances the building's sustainability but also seamlessly integrates into its modern architectural aesthetic. By combining energy generation with superior insulation, the photovoltaic glass serves as a key element in achieving the client’s sustainability goals while ensuring optimal performance for the data center's critical infrastructure.
Merlin is the leading real estate company in the Iberian Peninsula, specializing in the acquisition and management of commercial assets in offices, logistics, retail, and data centers. The company focuses on innovation, sustainability, and creating spaces that enhance customer and societal experiences.
