Sustainability at the heart of Rio AI City
International architecture studio Hyphen unveils a pioneering vision for a data center complex in Rio de Janeiro’s Jacarepaguá area. Spread over multiple buildings, this site aims to become “one of the world’s first sustainable AI districts.” Developed by Elea Data Centres, the project features ten plant-covered structures with renewable energy sources, promising to use 1.5 gigawatts (GW) of energy, scalable to 3.5 GW, within the confines of existing regional power resources.
Positioned near Rio’s Olympic Park, the project leverages the infrastructure from the iconic event, described by Mayor Eduardo Paes as Latin America’s largest data center initiative. Renderings display rectilinear buildings amidst landscaped plazas, showcasing Hyphen’s response to the data center’s environmental impact with an innovative mix of sustainable features.
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Commitment to renewable energy and ecological design
Hyphen plans to address the substantial energy demands associated with data centers through a complete reliance on renewable energy. Representatives highlight features like zero water cooling systems and landscape-led designs, emphasizing that the entire project utilizes 100% renewable and certified energy resources.
The architectural designs present latticed exteriors cloaked in lush greenery, which serves to moderate the urban heat-island effect often linked to data centers. This strategy emphasizes native planting, green facades, and water retention integrated with the nearby Mata Atlântica biome. These elements help cool the environment and manage heat across the campus.
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An accessible hub celebrating local culture
The project’s commitment to public accessibility and cultural integration is evident. Hyphen envisions a campus that combines technology with the vibrant local culture, a distinctly Latin American answer to global AI infrastructure needs. This dynamic approach creates an open, multi-functional space reflecting Brazil’s unique qualities.
Phase one of the development is underway, with ongoing advice from Hyphen for implementing future expansions. Suggestions also propose the campus may connect to the Porto Maravilha urban regeneration project, further blending innovation with local revitalization efforts.
Responding to global data center challenges
As data center projects proliferate, the Rio AI City stands out by offering a comprehensive response to energy and land usage challenges. This innovative project reflects a growing trend of integrating sustainable practices within massive infrastructure. Other advancements, like Gensler’s Stratos Hyperscale Data Center in Utah and AtkinsRéalis’ nuclear reactors proposal in Canada, illustrate varied approaches to such environmental challenges.
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Source: dezeen.com