DATA CENTER · MADRID, SPAIN
NEW CONSTRUCTION
This glass box emerges close to one of the main arteries of the city as one of the main data centers. Its great energy consumption is partially mitigated by the installation of an innovative photovoltaic ventilated façade covering 3,600 m2 that achieve 600 kWp of installed peak power. The integration of laminated photovoltaic glass into the building's envelope enhances its aesthetic value and provides tangible benefits in terms of improved thermal and acoustic insulation, on-site clean energy production, and consequential reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions.
MAD01 is an industry-leading performance and sustainable design, delivering secure, high-speed global connections through a growing network of low-latency links to undersea cables in Bilbao, Barcelona, and Lisbon. 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 34,000,000 kg of CO2 per year and 299,000,000 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.
The decision to install photovoltaic glass for this data center was particularly strategic, considering the facility’s enormous energy needs. With its capacity to reach a nominal power of 162 Wp per square meter, the photovoltaic glass significantly contributes to reducing the center's dependency on external energy sources. Its 0% visible light transmission ensures maximum energy absorption while maintaining the opaque, modern appearance necessary for such a structure. Additionally, the g-value of 37% effectively controls solar heat gain, helping maintain optimal internal temperatures, a critical factor for data centers, where cooling systems are essential. By combining energy generation with superior insulation properties, this photovoltaic façade supports the data center’s operational efficiency while aligning with sustainability goals, making it a forward-thinking solution that addresses both environmental impact and functional performance. The use of photovoltaic glass not only meets the building’s technical specifications but also reflects a commitment to sustainable and resilient infrastructure design.
