Planning
EhubX Optimization Platform
The EhubX optimization platform, developed by Empa's Urban Energy Systems Lab, supports the design of multi-energy systems by identifying optimal, cost-effective, and low-carbon solutions. It can be used for spatial resolution covering buildings to the district with single or multi-hub representation. It covers multi-energy sectors such as electricity, heating, cooling, gas, and hydrogen.
In the HEATWISE project, EhubX is used in T7.2 to assess different strategies for integrating edge data centers into tertiary buildings, with a focus on cooling technologies and multi-vector interactions. EhubX enables techno-economic analysis of various cooling solutions under different scenarios, including DC size, IT workload variability, building demand profiles, and site location. The tool helps compare different system configurations for the integration of edge data centers.
Thermal Simulations
As part of the HEATWISE project, thermal and cooling efficiencies of pilot data centres were assessed using advanced CFD simulations integrated with Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Custom models were developed and validated against experimental data, confirming their accuracy and robustness.
The CFD plays a critical role in data centres by revealing hidden thermal inefficiencies, airflow distribution issues, and suboptimal cooling conditions that are not easily detectable through measurements alone. The simulations informed targeted retrofitting strategies, enabling energy efficiency improvements of up to 75% in existing facilities.
Three-dimensional visualisations of airflow and temperature fields were also used to evaluate retrofitting scenarios. The validated models and tools developed through HEATWISE offer a scalable and replicable approach for improving thermal management, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing the sustainability of existing digital infrastructure across Europe.
Theoretical Analysis of Pilot Data Centres
In HEATWISE, both energy and exergy balances are used to evaluate pilot data centres. The energy balance quantifies heat generation and removal, while the exergy analysis highlights potential for improvement by locating avoidable losses in cooling and airflow systems.
Together, these methods enable a deeper understanding of system efficiency and support more sustainable design and operational strategies.
When validated with CFD simulations and real measurements, this dual approach helps identify retrofit solutions that significantly reduce energy consumption and environmental impact across Europe.