Why is the demand for HVAC and BMS solutions in data centers growing?
What are data centers, and why are they important for the digital economy?
Data centers are objects that are used to store, process, and distribute digital data. They are crucial for the functioning of the cloud, the Internet and applications. What is often overlooked is the fact that data centers are not only IT projects, but also large infrastructure and energy projects. This is where companies like us are welcomed
The key things for the functioning of data centers are: cooling, stable power supply and energy efficiency. We can say that there is no reliable data center without top HVAC and control system (BMS). The market is not only looking for IT companies, but also engineering firms that can deliver complex energy and air conditioning solutions.
Below, we analyze why this sector is a great opportunity and how Alfa Therm has managed to export its engineering skills to the center of the European digital revolution.
Data Center Market: growth, regulation, and investment
The European data center market is currently going through a phase of strong expansion as a result of the AI fever. There are also several other reasons:
- Digital transformation and AI boom -Companies are moving to the cloud while AI requires enormous data processing capacities. This increases the need for new data centers.
- Regulation and data localisation – The EU insists that data is stored within the EU. That means more local data centers, especially in Central and Eastern Europe.
- Energy challenges – Some major European cities are introducing restrictions as there is congestion. This opens up space for new markets and performers.
- Investment potential – Huge investments (around €20 billion) are planned to flow into European data centres
- Focus on sustainability –
The EU sets strict standards for energy efficiency. Data centers must be “green”, which further increases the complexity of projects.
Alfa Therm’s role in HVAC and BMS solutions for data centers
Alfa Therm is not a young company trying to catch a growing trend. It is a company with 40 years of experience in the design and construction of complex heating, cooling, ventilation and automation systems.
With over 3,000 completed projects and a strong engineering team, the company is already positioned as a leader in this part of Europe in HVAC and BMS solutions for large facilities – including hospitals, industrial and tourist complexes.
We should emphasize the “turnkey” approach (from design to maintenance) and the focus on energy efficiency and automation. Exactly everything that the market requires.
Entering the data center market is not a change of direction but a logical continuation for Alfa Therm. Data centers are objects with high requirements for reliability. They are known as large energy consumers with complex cooling systems. These are things that Alfa Therm has long been familiar with in various other industries, so we can certainly say that the company is not entering a new market, but the market has come into our expertise.
BIM (Building Information Modeling) and ISO 19650 standard in data center design
Alfa Therm has recognized that modern data centers do not draw. They model. By using ISO 19650 standarda and BIM methodology, engineers eliminate errors in the design phase. In an industry where every hour of downtime costs a lot, precision is crucial in the installation of cooling system pipes or ventilation ducts.
The Balkans as a new destination for the data centers construction:
One of the key trends is the decentralization of data centers from Western Europe to other parts of Europe. Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider region offer many advantages:
- lower construction costs,
- a more accessible workforce.
- geographical location,
- potential for the development of energy infrastructure.
- the potential of renewable energy sources.
For Alfa Therm, which already operates in Croatia and Europe, this represents market access and competitiveness in the EU market.
Challenges and competition in the market of HVAC solutions for data centers
The data center market is currently growing faster than the number of competent contractors for such demanding projects. There is a small number of companies that can integrate HVAC and electrical engineering and work according to high EU standards, delivering a turnkey project.
Alfa Therm can offer all of the above to its clients. This enables us to achieve significantly faster progress in this segment compared to our competitors.
However, the market is highly demanding. Competition is strong, standards and certifications are becoming increasingly strict, and technology is constantly evolving. Therefore, technical expertise alone is no longer enough for success. It is important to keep up with trends, invest in new solutions, and build strong partnerships and a good market position.
The Future of the HVAC Industry in the Data Center Sector
Data centers will not be a passing trend. They are bases of the digital economy and the new era. The EU market is entering a phase of accelerated construction with a limited number of excellent contractors.
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For Alfa Therm, this represents a great opportunity to go beyond the regional framework and strengthen its presence on the EU market by “cooling the heart of the digital world”. In an industry where reliability has no alternative, engineering companies that can guarantee performance are becoming key players. This is where the greatest potential lies.
In our next article , read how modern HVAC and BMS solutions for data centers enable greater energy efficiency, system security, and stable operation of critical infrastructure.
