AirTrunk partners with Pekat Solar for JHB1 solar project

AirTrunk has partnered with Pekat Solar to develop a rooftop solar installation at its Johor Bahru data centre, JHB1, in Malaysia.

The solar system will provide 1 megawatt (MW) of renewable energy to the JHB1 site, augmenting AirTrunk's efforts toward achieving its goal of Net Zero by 2030. This initiative forms part of AirTrunk's broader renewable strategy, which includes a significant virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) under Malaysia's Corporate Green Power Programme. Through the VPPA, AirTrunk plans to procure renewable energy from a 30MW solar farm developed by ib vogt.

JHB1, which started operations in July, is designed with energy efficiency in mind. It boasts a power usage effectiveness (PUE) of 1.15 and is the first in the region to feature direct-to-chip liquid cooling technology. This innovation significantly reduces energy consumption, supporting the data centre's capacity for artificial intelligence applications.

According to Pei Jet Lim, AirTrunk Vice President and Country Head for Malaysia, the new rooftop solar installation is a pivotal step in the company's renewable energy efforts in the region. "AirTrunk is delivering shared value in Malaysia, enabling the growth of the digital economy, driving employment opportunities, supporting our communities and stewarding the sustainable use of water and energy," he said. "Along with the renewable VPPA, and reduced energy consumption through liquid cooling, the rooftop solar project supports the energy transition as we continue to grow in Malaysia."

Katherine Tjandra, AirTrunk Energy Transition Director, also commented on the role of on-site generation in the company's sustainable energy roadmap. She stated, "Combined with larger-scale power purchase agreements, on-site generation is an essential part of the suite of solutions in AirTrunk's renewable energy roadmap. We are embedding sustainability into our operational DNA by utilising available space on our campuses for solar power, reaffirming AirTrunk's focus on developing and operating sustainable digital infrastructure."

The installation will be undertaken by Pekat Solar, a notable solar contractor in Malaysia. Liho Tee, Business Development Director at Pekat Solar, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. "We are excited to partner with AirTrunk on this meaningful initiative and blending Pekat's expertise in solar energy to enhance both the resilience and sustainability of the AirTrunk campus," he said. "This project not only underscores our shared commitment to driving the energy transition but also showcases how corporate action can contribute to a more sustainable future for Malaysia."

AirTrunk's rooftop solar project at its Johor Bahru data centre highlights its practical approach to integrating renewable energy into its operations while supporting Malaysia's energy transition. This initiative and other measures like the VPPA and advanced cooling technologies demonstrate a broader industry trend toward sustainable digital infrastructure. By collaborating with partners like Pekat Solar, AirTrunk leverages innovation to balance growth in the digital economy with environmental responsibility.